How many empty shops are there in High Road, Ilford?

In late May I spent a day in Ilford and counted the number of empty or closed shop units down High Road, one of the town's most commercial streets.

I counted 10 in total.

Immediately after stepping into High Road, I was fronted by two large and clearly empty neighbouring units.

This unit used to be Waterstones (Image: Gianni Cirillo) One of these units used to be Shuropody Foot Clinic which, according to an article by the Royal College of Podiatry, went into liquidation in July last year.

The unit to the left was formerly Waterstones which closed its doors for the final time on August 4 last year as documented in an Instagram post.

Another empty unit was Valera Chartered Accountants at 343 High Road. 

Google Maps shows the accountants occupying the premises as far back as 2008.

Valera Chartered Accountants was in High Road since at least 2008 (Image: Gianni Cirillo) Fruity Pearlz, which formerly offered bubble tea and other sweet treats was also closed down on this stretch of road.

Cemo Restaurant was dissolved in 2012 according to Companies House and when I walked past, it was being used to hold stacks of rubbish and old furniture.

Mr Cuts at 377 High Road was also dissolved in February 2022 according to Companies House.

TJR Bathrooms was another empty unit I saw. It had plastic sheeting over the windows and 'Shop to let' spray-painted on with a contact number.

The former site of TJR Bathrooms is available to let (Image: Gianni Cirillo) Fitness First in Ilford Retail Park also remains closed with a sign in the window.

The sign explains that existing memberships have ended unless you extend at another nearby club.

In the Exchange Centre, Wilko on the ground floor remains closed whilst a unit on the top floor appeared new but uninhabited although there were no signs or clues as to what might be coming.

Fitness First remains closed (Image: Gianni Cirillo) A Redbridge Council spokesperson said: "Ilford is a vibrant destination that attracts local families and visitors alike.

"Despite the national economic challenges, Ilford, like other major towns in the UK, is resilient and has coped remarkably well in adapting to the cost of living crisis and shifts in consumer buying habits.

"Ilford town centre remains a proud host to a variety of nationally recognised retailers and small to medium-sized businesses.

"These businesses are not just surviving but thriving, a testament to Ilford's economic resilience and adaptability.

Cemo Restaurant had stacks of rubbish in its outdoor space (Image: Gianni Cirillo) "With a strong mix of fitness providers, including Nuffield Health, The Gym Group, Pure Gym, and Box Up Gym, Ilford is a hub for health and wellbeing.

"The introduction of innovative fitness offers such as Rocket Padel Ilford and Ping Hub at Exchange Ilford is enhancing the town's sporting experiences.

"We anticipate further announcements in the coming months that will add to these offerings."

They said a new trial market in the town had been "a resounding success", receiving positive feedback from the National Market Traders' Federation (NMTF).

"This market has not only driven footfall to the town centre but also created employment opportunities.

"This year, the market will feature a young traders market as part of the NMTF national campaign. 

"Together with the Ilford Business Improvement District, Redbridge Council will continue to showcase the town’s strengths in business support, sustainability, housing, and employment.

"With these strong foundations, we remain confident in Ilford’s resilience and its potential for further growth.

"It's also crucial to remember that the heart of Ilford town centre is its dedicated business owners.

"These individuals, who open their doors every day to serve and welcome the community, are integral to Ilford's success and should be appreciated for their unwavering support."