Doom loop of decline: how struggling high streets fuel far-right sympathies in UK

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Richard Partington Senior economics correspondentJanuary 29, 2026 at 11:45 AM

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long article 4 min

A study shows a correlation between the decline of British high streets and increased support for right-wing populist parties like Reform UK. The research indicates that areas with high shop vacancy rates, particularly in the north of England, the Midlands, and deprived coastal towns, are more likely to support Reform. Voters who perceive their local areas as declining are more inclined to back the party. The visible decay of high streets fuels public frustration and a sense that the country is deteriorating, despite promises of improvement. While retail accounts for a small portion of the economy, its prominent presence influences public perception and contributes to a feeling of community erosion, driving support for populist movements.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Wales 40% Germany 40% Conservative Party (UK) 50% University of Warwick 50% England 60% Labour Party (UK) ×260% Thiemo Fetzer ×260% Nigel Farage 80% UK ×490% Reform UK ×390%

Keywords

high street decline 100% far-right sympathies 90% populism 70% shop closures 70% reform uk 60% local area decline 60% public frustration 50% economic decline 50% uk economy 40% voter sentiment 40%