FabSwingers.com > Forums > The Lounge > Hugh Streets Really Are Dead Aren't They...
Hugh Streets Really Are Dead Aren't They...
Jump to: Newest in thread
 |
By *bi Haive OP Man
over a year ago
Forum Mod Cheeseville, Somerset |
Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
It's a shame to be honest. I much prefer doing clothes shopping on the high street as I can actually try it on and get a feel for the material but it seems like they have limited stock of everything so even if I like something, it won't be in my size or they have more choice online so they don't help themselves either.
Would love to see the high street thrive as it's generally a nice day out  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
It's grim and been going that way for years.
Interestingly, at least around here, I find that more pound land style shops open up, or those within that vein or, it goes completely in the other direction, very expensive, niche, a little over the top.
I'll save the economic and political commentary for another day, I can only handle so much excitement.
All in all, it's rather sad and I find a town's sense of identity becomes lost. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Yeah.
We’ve been out on some shopping adventures this week and it does make you wonder how the majority of these places are still open.
Even the designer type villages, very few people about and very little on display in the actual shops.
It’s a bit crap.
We did have a lovely five guys though  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
I agree. Sadly, we've made the High Streets what they are, with our love of internet shopping.
What's the answer? No idea. Reduce rates and encourage shops selling artisan/local goods. But the landlords won't be happy.
High Streets are crime hot spots after dark  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *bi Haive OP Man
over a year ago
Forum Mod Cheeseville, Somerset |
"Yeah.
We’ve been out on some shopping adventures this week and it does make you wonder how the majority of these places are still open.
Even the designer type villages, very few people about and very little on display in the actual shops.
It’s a bit crap.
We did have a lovely five guys though "
It's too depressing right now for me to even make a gang bang joke out of that comment.
And my coffee has hone cold far too quickly.
Meh..........
A |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A"
Think you nailed it there. All online shopping... Use the high street for delivery truck parking. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *dwalu2Couple
over a year ago
Bristol |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A"
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Yeah.
We’ve been out on some shopping adventures this week and it does make you wonder how the majority of these places are still open.
Even the designer type villages, very few people about and very little on display in the actual shops.
It’s a bit crap.
We did have a lovely five guys though
It's too depressing right now for me to even make a gang bang joke out of that comment.
And my coffee has hone cold far too quickly.
Meh..........
A"
You’re starting to sound just like dido!
We’re actually just contemplating a walk around the German market in town rather than the cinema now…
Maybe we’ll compile a journalistic masterpiece for your thread later  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *bi Haive OP Man
over a year ago
Forum Mod Cheeseville, Somerset |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too."
Yep.
Everyone complains and then puts the tick in the box for the people causing all the issues.
Self inflicted misery en masse....
A |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I would much rather shop on the high street however more often than not if I go in to buy something they don't have my size or what I'm looking for but tell me they have it online so I should order a there. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Large shopping centres are doing better but the rents in most high streets are killing the average trader and then the cost of heating and other utilities means most are just nail salons, fast food, coffee shops, charity shops and bookies
I need a laptop riser and some ergo stuff for my home office. I can go on Amazon and have it here by the time I get home. No faffing about, people or miserable staff. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A"
are you in Hughs House?  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing....."
This happens all the time however it is not affordable housing. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing.....
And doctors and dentists surgeries. "
We have plenty of those we just don't have the doctors And there are enough dentists to go round as long as you don't want NHS |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing.....
This happens all the time however it is not affordable housing. "
They've built a load of affordable housing near us... Affordable for millionaires. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I do think it's sad to see but at the same time will choose online over in-person shopping 99% of the time. I've noticed more shops being replaced with activities and I like that - things for kids to do, gig/theatre venues, interesting pubs and restaurants - those I would be more inclined to go into town for. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing.....
This happens all the time however it is not affordable housing.
They've built a load of affordable housing near us... Affordable for millionaires. "
Where we live they are building loads of what are called pocket starter homes. They are apparently affordable, they are currently on the market for one bedroom from £265,000. I mean for this area that is cheap but hardly affordable for most. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing.....
This happens all the time however it is not affordable housing.
They've built a load of affordable housing near us... Affordable for millionaires.
Where we live they are building loads of what are called pocket starter homes. They are apparently affordable, they are currently on the market for one bedroom from £265,000. I mean for this area that is cheap but hardly affordable for most. "
That's expensive even for down south. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Maybe convert derelict shops, office blocks and supermarkets into what we do actually need- housing.....
This happens all the time however it is not affordable housing.
They've built a load of affordable housing near us... Affordable for millionaires.
Where we live they are building loads of what are called pocket starter homes. They are apparently affordable, they are currently on the market for one bedroom from £265,000. I mean for this area that is cheap but hardly affordable for most.
That's expensive even for down south. "
Not for London it's not. I know several of them have been bought by buy to let landlords. This was not supposed to happen however apparently now they are allowed to have half of the most recent development for investors. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *r TriomanMan
over a year ago
Chippenham Malmesbury area |
Rented accommodation at massively reduced rent; one of the reason shop close is due to sky high rent.
If landlords don't play ball their buildings will just be left to rot and then they'll have nothing.
Personally, I used to love shopping in the high street but now coffee is too expensive, I've already got a phone, I don't gamble and all my clothes are from the charity shops so I don't need any more. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
It's not just online shopping to blame, before that even became a thing the out of town retail parks started the decline in town centres, its just how it is. Before that it was big hypermarkets taking business from smaller retailers. Its been gradually progressing for decades. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Yeah.
We’ve been out on some shopping adventures this week and it does make you wonder how the majority of these places are still open.
Even the designer type villages, very few people about and very little on display in the actual shops.
It’s a bit crap.
We did have a lovely five guys though "
Five guys in the high street!!!
You dirty devils, that must have shocked the blue rinse brigade   |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
What we should be doing is shopping local, butchers greengrocers etc, there are a few about and yes the argument that they are more expensive is correct however, we are all by shopping online and big supermarkets forcing their hand too, and in reality if ten per cent of us did exactly that and pseudo-boycotted the big boys then the high st would look dramatically different, how hard can it be ?? |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"What we should be doing is shopping local, butchers greengrocers etc, there are a few about and yes the argument that they are more expensive is correct however, we are all by shopping online and big supermarkets forcing their hand too, and in reality if ten per cent of us did exactly that and pseudo-boycotted the big boys then the high st would look dramatically different, how hard can it be ??"
This would not be hard if everyone had money in their pockets and weren't living paycheck to paycheck (or worse) due to soaring inflation and costs of living.
Doing the right thing isn't cheap unfortunately. The rentier class is killing brick and mortar businesses in the UK, and this story is playing out in every single developed/advanced country in the world. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
The main shopping areas in Hastings and nearby Bexhill are always busy. Old Town in Hastings has a few independent shops.
It's difficult to find decent independent greengrocers though.
The way we shop has changed. We don't need to leave our sofa to buy anything.
In my lifetime I've seen shopping go from delivery to your front door full circle to delivery to your front door. When I was a child the baker, butcher, fishmonger and greengrocer delivered. The greengrocer came round on a horse and cart . |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too."
I'd it only tories and lib dems who shop online? Who knew? |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Online shopping is part of it. Also retail parks. And the cost of parking. And traffic. And really shit shops.
I'd pedestrianise every town centre. Encourage more cafes and eating places. Shift the skanky shops (vaping/betting/pound shops) to some shitty industrial estate and make town centres nice places to enjoy the heritage and atmosphere. Museums, galleries, landscaping etc. Basically make them places you go for a nice day out instead of the shitholes we mostly try and avoid. It's pointless trying to compete with online and retail parks, that horse bolted long ago. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
It’s bugger all to do with our crap political system, they’re all tossers btw, and everything to do with how we shop. Big names have mostly moved out to shopping centres and retail parks to compete with online shopping. High streets will only thrive if rent and rates there are reduced to make independent businesses viable. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I live and work in Devon and a house certainly a new house on the estate I'm working on would cost you from £400,000 and the larger houses £700,000 "
Yep. Homes in this area are eyewateringly expensive. Don't even get me started on 'affordable housing'. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......"
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......"
We are quite lucky in our area and majority are accessible. The main issue on the local high street is disabled parking so yes totally understand why people with accessibility needs go out of town. Another major issue is a lot of high streets took out benches particularly during lockdown and haven't put them back and this is a real issue for people with mobility issues and the elderly. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I was in Taunton yesterday and it was fucking grim and I suspect that it's only going to get worse.The high street was particularly bad!
Mike
To be fair Taunton was grim 30 years ago! "
I was just going to say this. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *JB1954Man
over a year ago
Reading |
I do not go into my local town very often. In fact only if really need. My thought is when shopping. I yes do mine at local superstore about three miles from house. Free parking. Bus into town / return £4.60. Car parking in town nearest town centre £4 for two hours. At superstore shopping in trolley out to car and home. In town try to carry from shop to shop , back to car or do couple of trips. If bus then have to carry all to bus stop. This I am referring to a weekly shop. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility. "
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift." "
The worst we have ever had is yes there are quite a few steps but don't worry if there's a fire we will carry you out! I mean... |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *htcMan
over a year ago
MK |
High streets out priced there selfs to be honest, I switched around 14 years ago. Haven't visited a shopping centre since.
Everything online is easier, faster and cheaper. Not Amazon who is usually more expensive. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
""Caffé Nero" is still the best identikit high street coffee shop.   "
It's pretty good but round here, not all of them are accessible. Starbucks, for example, are almost all guaranteed to be accessible and have disabled loos.
I fell out with Costa (also generally very good for access) because they started using a vile type of soya milk. Absolutely disgusting stuff and completely undrinkable so I won't go there now. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Online shopping is part of it. Also retail parks. And the cost of parking. And traffic. And really shit shops.
I'd pedestrianise every town centre. Encourage more cafes and eating places. Shift the skanky shops (vaping/betting/pound shops) to some shitty industrial estate and make town centres nice places to enjoy the heritage and atmosphere. Museums, galleries, landscaping etc. Basically make them places you go for a nice day out instead of the shitholes we mostly try and avoid. It's pointless trying to compete with online and retail parks, that horse bolted long ago."
Agree with this
Also, decent pop up markets similar to the ones you find in London, one week vintage clothing, craft or reclaimed furniture, the next home cooked food, sweets and other perishable goods.
Good restaurants, theatres, pop up Cinema clubs and a market would benefit the high streets and help the footfall. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
""Caffé Nero" is still the best identikit high street coffee shop.
It's pretty good but round here, not all of them are accessible. Starbucks, for example, are almost all guaranteed to be accessible and have disabled loos.
I fell out with Costa (also generally very good for access) because they started using a vile type of soya milk. Absolutely disgusting stuff and completely undrinkable so I won't go there now. "
°
How far will you be to your nearest 'Nero, KC², when you move to your new Bung-a-low?  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift." "
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *dwalu2Couple
over a year ago
Bristol |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too.
I'd it only tories and lib dems who shop online? Who knew? "
If online shopping was the only reason high streets were dying you’d have at least a banal point. However, the ruination the Tories and their partners the Lib Dems have wreaked upon our national economy since 2010 is having a crippling effect on all businesses, not just ones that have to compete online.
Town centres do not exist in a vacuum - they are a crucial part of our living national infrastructure. If you simultaneously maim and starve that living national infrastructure, as both the Tories and Lib Dems have done through successive governments, it should be no surprise when it begins to die. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too.
I'd it only tories and lib dems who shop online? Who knew?
If online shopping was the only reason high streets were dying you’d have at least a banal point. However, the ruination the Tories and their partners the Lib Dems have wreaked upon our national economy since 2010 is having a crippling effect on all businesses, not just ones that have to compete online.
Town centres do not exist in a vacuum - they are a crucial part of our living national infrastructure. If you simultaneously maim and starve that living national infrastructure, as both the Tories and Lib Dems have done through successive governments, it should be no surprise when it begins to die."
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"They should put a garden centre on the High Street. It would soon pick up! Every time I pass a Garden Centre the car park is full."
It's funny how fashionable they've become. Grab a dahlia, coffee and some cake. Bit of aimless wandering.
I wonder how many plants are murdered each year for this hobby. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
""Caffé Nero" is still the best identikit high street coffee shop.
Self praise is no recommendation 
°
I like to blow my own trumpet.
Oooh, a contortionist too!"
°
I think the term that you're looking for is 'Autofellatio".  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too.
Yep.
Everyone complains and then puts the tick in the box for the people causing all the issues.
Self inflicted misery en masse....
A"
Not sure that any political party can be blamed for people shopping online. If you want the high street to thrive, use it. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Sat outside a coffee shop (Nero - others are obviously available but had less empty seats) and I'm watching people go by.
Everyone looks so bloody miserable. Nobody seems to carrying shopping bags.
From where I'm sat I can see four mobile phone shops, three empty units, a poundland, one bank, and a couple of big name traditional stores that look deserted.
And a fuck load of pigeons.
As someone who does 99% of their shopping online because its easier, cheaper and I can get what I want without doing a 50 mile round trip I guess I'm as guilty as many for causing the death of high street retail.
But fuck me it's a sorry sight.
Anyone any bright ideas for what high streets could be used for as an alternative to shops?
A
Somerset traditionally votes Conservative and occasionally for the Lib Dems, so they are getting exactly what they chose at the ballot box.
Unfortunately the rest of us are getting what they voted for too.
Yep.
Everyone complains and then puts the tick in the box for the people causing all the issues.
Self inflicted misery en masse....
A
Not sure that any political party can be blamed for people shopping online. If you want the high street to thrive, use it."
I'd use it, if I could get into it. Wheelchair accessibility is shite outside of the retail parks and purpose built, modern shops. Which are not immediately local to us. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared. "
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago
Dubai & Nottingham |
"I agree. Sadly, we've made the High Streets what they are, with our love of internet shopping.
What's the answer? No idea. Reduce rates and encourage shops selling artisan/local goods. But the landlords won't be happy.
High Streets are crime hot spots after dark "
Even with reduced rent , there’s not the demand for high end artisan products outside of a handful of affluent areas. In many town you’ll feel ne Asda, Poundland, Savers, B&M , Wilko etc are very profitable and often turning stock more than once per day. They are the Amazons of the offline world for small towns and cities |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
The high street for shopping is a thing of the past. A lot of the shops which once thrived on the high street, now thrive on the out of town Centres. Supermarkets were once on the high street, virtually none are now. Plus Argos, Currys, Next ect, now sell in the out of town shopping areas. A lot of high streets are pedestrianised meaning people can't park outside the shops to collect bigger purchases, so retailers of large goods moved to locations where there are car parks in front of stores. High street shops are also very often too small for the range of goods retailers now sell.
It's not all down to internet purchases. It's not all down to " use it or lose it" either, people can't afford to pay inflated prices to support high street shops.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out "
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I live and work in Devon and a house certainly a new house on the estate I'm working on would cost you from £400,000 and the larger houses £700,000
Yep. Homes in this area are eyewateringly expensive. Don't even get me started on 'affordable housing'. "
and yet in Torquay you can get an older house for £260,000 and a 2 bed flat £180,000 not bad |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I was in Taunton yesterday and it was fucking grim and I suspect that it's only going to get worse.The high street was particularly bad!
Mike
To be fair Taunton was grim 30 years ago!
I was just going to say this. "
Taunton high street is pretty bad, it's got nothing on Bridgwater high street though |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *host63Man
over a year ago
Bedfont Feltham |
Before online shopping going to the high St to look for something often ment hours going from shop to shop trying to find what you are looking for without success. Now I can find exactly what I am looking for without dragging myself outside and driving to a carpark that charges me am exorbitant amount of money to park often for a fruitless search and having to deal either rude staff who have no idea of the product they are selling.
It's a combination that has been strangling the high St well before online shopping |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago
Dubai & Nottingham |
"I was in Taunton yesterday and it was fucking grim and I suspect that it's only going to get worse.The high street was particularly bad!
Mike
To be fair Taunton was grim 30 years ago!
I was just going to say this.
Taunton high street is pretty bad, it's got nothing on Bridgwater high street though "
I Love Bridgwater , Steet and Glastonbury lots of creatives but they don’t rent on the high streets they have workshops and sell mostly online |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes."
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities..... |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes.
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities....."
Oh I get the bloody mindedness of it all, but it would be nice to just waft around in a borderline care free manner.
Are you setting up a second set of wheels for the chair? Or going for a bespoke off road one?
From what I found, you might be better off with some 24" mtb tyres and going tubeless to prevent punctures and the like. The solid tyres will have no grip or deformation, plus be horribly uncomfortable. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes.
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities.....
Oh I get the bloody mindedness of it all, but it would be nice to just waft around in a borderline care free manner.
Are you setting up a second set of wheels for the chair? Or going for a bespoke off road one?
From what I found, you might be better off with some 24" mtb tyres and going tubeless to prevent punctures and the like. The solid tyres will have no grip or deformation, plus be horribly uncomfortable. "
They're 53mm width deep tread pneumatic ones with super duper anti puncture technology within. For my regular manual chair, they have the same quick release pins. I'm hoping to pair it with a Freewheel to lift up the casters but not had a lot of luck with that so far..... |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes.
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities.....
Oh I get the bloody mindedness of it all, but it would be nice to just waft around in a borderline care free manner.
Are you setting up a second set of wheels for the chair? Or going for a bespoke off road one?
From what I found, you might be better off with some 24" mtb tyres and going tubeless to prevent punctures and the like. The solid tyres will have no grip or deformation, plus be horribly uncomfortable.
They're 53mm width deep tread pneumatic ones with super duper anti puncture technology within. For my regular manual chair, they have the same quick release pins. I'm hoping to pair it with a Freewheel to lift up the casters but not had a lot of luck with that so far....."
So a 2.1" tyre, we use such an odd blend of metric and imperial on bikes its so unnerving haha.
Going from my own experience:
As for that casters, yeah, they might have adjustments on the caster itself. If not, the bracket that attaches the wheel to the chair frame can be adjusted I believe, I assume this is to compensate the taller tyre height and prevent the arse slipping out the chair phenomenon.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes.
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities.....
Oh I get the bloody mindedness of it all, but it would be nice to just waft around in a borderline care free manner.
Are you setting up a second set of wheels for the chair? Or going for a bespoke off road one?
From what I found, you might be better off with some 24" mtb tyres and going tubeless to prevent punctures and the like. The solid tyres will have no grip or deformation, plus be horribly uncomfortable.
They're 53mm width deep tread pneumatic ones with super duper anti puncture technology within. For my regular manual chair, they have the same quick release pins. I'm hoping to pair it with a Freewheel to lift up the casters but not had a lot of luck with that so far.....
So a 2.1" tyre, we use such an odd blend of metric and imperial on bikes its so unnerving haha.
Going from my own experience:
As for that casters, yeah, they might have adjustments on the caster itself. If not, the bracket that attaches the wheel to the chair frame can be adjusted I believe, I assume this is to compensate the taller tyre height and prevent the arse slipping out the chair phenomenon.
"
First attempt at Freewheel snapped my footplate, so........ I might try an RGK FrontWheel, that has the frame anchoring rather than footplate anchor. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Most shops and restaurants/cafés on our local high street are not wheelchair accessible. Go figure why I go to the out of town retail park or shop online......
Yeah, it's awful isn't it.
I felt like I needed to do a recon mission before hitting a new place for accessibility.
Yeah, you have to reccy in person too. No good phoning up and asking because some restaurants' version of wheelchair accessible and mine are very different. "Oh, it's only two steps." "Oh sorry, our toilets are all up/down stairs and there's no lift."
Oh god yes, this a hundred times over.
You end up sticking with what you know, which is a shame because you miss out on the joy of exploration.
Until you find cobblestones. Then that joy rapidly disappeared.
I had fun pushing down The Shambles in York
Didn't fall out
But what about your fillings?
Back when it was relevant, I wish there had been an app or guide for accessibility. However, you quickly learn that it'd basically turn into a map of nopes.
I have no fillings
I'm bloody minded and very strong in the upper body, so I just plough on (literally sometimes) regardless. I'm waiting for some phat off-road tyres to improve my off-road capabilities.....
Oh I get the bloody mindedness of it all, but it would be nice to just waft around in a borderline care free manner.
Are you setting up a second set of wheels for the chair? Or going for a bespoke off road one?
From what I found, you might be better off with some 24" mtb tyres and going tubeless to prevent punctures and the like. The solid tyres will have no grip or deformation, plus be horribly uncomfortable.
They're 53mm width deep tread pneumatic ones with super duper anti puncture technology within. For my regular manual chair, they have the same quick release pins. I'm hoping to pair it with a Freewheel to lift up the casters but not had a lot of luck with that so far.....
So a 2.1" tyre, we use such an odd blend of metric and imperial on bikes its so unnerving haha.
Going from my own experience:
As for that casters, yeah, they might have adjustments on the caster itself. If not, the bracket that attaches the wheel to the chair frame can be adjusted I believe, I assume this is to compensate the taller tyre height and prevent the arse slipping out the chair phenomenon.
First attempt at Freewheel snapped my footplate, so........ I might try an RGK FrontWheel, that has the frame anchoring rather than footplate anchor. "
I had to Google the freewheel device. I'm not surprised it snapped the foot plate though. Ouch hopefully the spares are readily available and not too badly priced.
Interesting little device though, and now I've realised all my prior comments were way off in a totally different direction. My apologies lol.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
» Add a new message to this topic
