The small town of Orpington based in South East London is known commonly for its popularity among London's commuters.
 
Located in the borough of Bromley, this suburban area provides access to both fast pace city life and fresh countryside escapes. Being in the greenest borough in London, the high street sits in close proximity to a variety of geographical needs, perfect for families hunting for a balanced life. Despite its convenient location, a growing concern presents itself surrounding Orpington highstreets desirability.
 
Upon interview, locals gave an overall opinion on central Orpington. Karen Boyd (53) mentioned how “the high street is not very inviting and lacks in variety of shops in particular clothing.” Additionally, 17 year old Abi Hewitt agreed in saying: “the limited space in comparison to Bromley high street makes it less appealing”. Despite these predominantly negative attitudes, 21 year old Lucy Boyd explained how “the train station and many bus stops help to make it more accessible but can cause a high amount of travel and congestion.” Resultantly, this issue accounts for notable worries surrounding the areas value on being eco-friendly. Multiple locals such as 19 year old George Cooper suggested a pedestrian only policy similar to its neighbour Bromley in a hope to “reduce congestion and make it a safer place for everyone.”
 
Julia Skripnichenko (16) highlighted Orpington’s substantial social aspect with it being “an easy central place to meet with friends.” Many commented on how the central square has the most beneficial aspects which include the 2016 Odeon Cinema, walnuts leisure centre and Buzz Zone soft play centre. Offering a range of activities for a range of people. Additionally, the convenient Tesco superstore was a reoccurring aspect which receives the most visits and use out of all the shops in the surrounding area. Despite these available resources a pattern of attendance noted that an average of every 3-4 weeks the majority of people interviewed would travel into the high street further concluding its lack of popularity and disuse.
 
During lockdown, along with highstreets across the country, Orpington struggled to circulate money in its economy. As online shopping hit an all time high, the physical shopping experience deteriorated causing companies to shut and move elsewhere.
In a bid to combat this decline, a newly proposed regeneration programme is being discussed. General aspects include affordable housing opportunities for first time, last time and retirement buyers. This aim would be fulfilled through the construction of new tower blocks up to 19 storeys in height.
 
The overall standout issue for Orpington high street is the surrounding competition which provide more beneficial alternative shopping experiences. 38-year-old Jenny Mullin stated she would choose “Locks bottom, the Nugent Centre and Petts Wood” instead of Orpington for a more enjoyment and efficiency.
 
Orpington high streets sense of community is hindered by the areas slowly deteriorating retail environment. However, the dream to transform the town into a contemporary London hotspot may become attainable in the upcoming years. With innovation and development. Orpington can step up to represent the overlooked Greater London locations and become a greater place for all.