There are nearly 15 empty units in Croydon High Street ranging from closed charity shops, takeaways, and estate agents.

On Tuesday (September 17), Your Local Guardian took a trip to Croydon High Street.

Walking from the bottom of the High Street next to George Street to Sheldon Street near the Royal Standard Pub, we counted 14 empty units that were either boarded up, permanently closed, or lying empty behind shutters with no sign of any new tenants or businesses moving in.

At the top of the High Street was a former marketing suit called Queen’s Square, and just opposite that was a former florist called Floral Creations with shutters over it.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)

Just a few minutes up the high street stood a former kebab shop bordered up and fenced off.

As we continued to walk up the high street, more shops were seen completely boarded up “for sale” signs and notices that the store that once filled the stop would be closing.

An unnamed Indian restaurant was boarded up, as well as a former home improvement store and an old estate agent plastered with adverts.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)

The site where an old British Heart Foundation store once stood is now covered in graffiti and plastered with posters.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)Stores counted only include along Croydon High Street and not on nearby roads or inside Centrale and the Whitgift Centre.

Despite the many empty units, Croydon High Street is home to many pubs, businesses, and takeaways, like the Crown and Pepper, Delta’s Pizza, and Flames Kebab.

The pedestrian-friendly layout encourages leisurely strolls, and the markets provide ample opportunities for community engagement.

The street is conveniently located near public transport, including many bus stops and East and West Croydon station.

Overall, despite many buildings lying dormant, Croydon High Street offers a welcoming experience with many shops to explore.

The view of empty shops or retail units for sale has become a normal site for many businesses and residents across south London.

Due to the impact of the pandemic, combined with the cost-of-living crisis, many businesses have had to close down, including one beloved high street store, Wilko’s.

Online shopping has also reduced foot traffic, impacting traditional retail stores, and high rents and business rates make it challenging for small businesses to thrive on London high streets.