Calls For Action to Halt Closure of Northfield Avenue Shops

E-petition set up after another independent shuts its doors

The closure of another shop on Northfield Avenue has sparked fears about the future of the local high street.

Whilst Pitshanger Lane has grown from strength to strength winning the London section of the Great British High Street Competition,and being praised in Parliament (pdf) , the same can't be said for it's W5/W13 equivalent.

The beginnning of the year saw various closures including Terracotta and Darch and Duff, now BK fancy dress shop has also shut.

There are at least ten vacant stores on the stretch of Northfields Avenue from Lammas Park to The Forester pub and it's becoming a cause for concern for many local residents.

Philip Harrison has set up an e-petition urging Ealing Council step in. It reads:

'' We petition the Council to take positive and proactive action to, not only stop the increase in closure of independent shops on Northfields high street (having now lost the book shop, darch and duff to name a few) but also support and encourage, through affirmative action, the opening of new independent businesses.''

Mr Harrison says: "Having settled in Northfields over 4 years ago, apart from the key transport links one of the main attractions was the prolification of independent shops. These gave the ward a distinct feeling of family focus, community and individuality when compared to Ealing Broadway and West Ealing.  Over the recent years the number of independent shops closing down has increased and are now empty lots.  I believe that a large number of the community feel how I do regards the positives independent shops bring to a community and don't wish to see a spread of 'fast food joints' or gambling premises.  I've therefore raised an e-petition to enable residents to show their support for proactive action to be taken and policy identified and implemented."

On a more positive note two new cafe/restaurants have recently opened and been welcolmed locally. Nuki Thai Kitchen and an Italian Deli, Sikula.

The petition is open now until April 6th.

8th March 2016