.jpg?width=96&crop=1:1,smart)
With the seemingly never-ending rise of online shopping, and the cost of living crisis making things even harder, Commercial Road and other high streets in the Portsmouth area are considered less attractive places to visit than they once were.
MORE LIKE THIS: Regeneration plans to boost Waterlooville and Havant town centres outlined, Gosport's High Street receives regeneration funding
Smaller places with lower footfall, including Gosport, Fareham, Havant and Waterlooville, are also feeling the pinch. Efforts are being made to make improvements.
Gosport High Street is receiving regeneration funding this year. Regeneration plans for the centres of Havant and Waterlooville have also been lined up.
Even with these plans being put in place, questions remain as to whether these high streets can become more attractive places to visit. We asked our readers for their opinions.
9. Waterlooville High Street
Tanis Smith said: “Have a market on Saturday/Sunday in Waterlooville. We have a nice little market on Fridays but a lot of people are at work. A regular Farmers/Makers market in Waterlooville would be nice too.” Photo: Vernon Nash
10. General points of concern
Angela Agate raised several points which were common amongst our readers. She said: “Affordable rent to encourage new businesses. Safe paths for cyclists and walkers. Attractive places to sit outside cafés, that provide shade when hot and cover when it rains.” Photo: Vernon Nash
11. General points of concern
Kerry Kerry and Angela Agate said a more attractive environment would be a way to revive our high streets. Kerry said: “Green spaces, fruit trees, cycle paths.” Angela added: "Safe paths for cyclists and walkers. Attractive places to sit outside cafés, that provide shade when hot and cover when it rains." Photo: Vernon Nash