Deprived Areas Have 70% More Vape Shops, Bookies and Takeaways

Deprived high streets in England are populated by 70% more vape shops, bookmakers, takeaways and off-licences than in wealthier areas, a new study has found.

Poorer areas also have far fewer gyms, nurseries and cafes. The study, published by the Independent Commission on Neighborhoods (Icon), found that shopping parades in deprived areas have roughly double the number of retailers selling fast food and significantly higher vacancy rates.

It also found that poorer areas have half the number of childcare facilities – like nurseries and children’s centres – and roughly 25% less social infrastructure such as gyms, cafes and pubs compared to more affluent areas.

The study also warned that a focus on ailing town centres risks overlooking the “crucial” role that local shopping parades play in people’s lives. 

The decline in Britain’s high streets has been a source of growing anger among voters. Prime minister Keir Starmer last week announced a £5bn “pride in place” investment programme in 284 areas across the UK, but the news was largely overshadowed by the scandal over Peter Mandelson’s links to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. 

Reform UK has made “broken” high streets a central plank of its messaging ahead of the May local elections, which are expected to be devastating for the Labour government.