Putney got a wakeup call in 2016. It’s pollution levels were high. National news type high. Breaching the regulated nitrogen oxide limit 403 times in a year and exceeding levels on Oxford Street by a concerning rate. It had to change.
However, four years later and has Wandsworth council done enough to save its inhabitants and environment from such crisis? Combined with the threats of rising rents, gentrification and increased scrutiny – does Putney even stand a chance?
Talking to residences, the answer is yes. Well, to an extent.
In the past couple of years, despite the introduction of a low emission bus zone which lead to a staggering 47% drop in nitrogen oxide concentration, Putney has still faced its fair share of problems - the most pressing based around the dramatic increase in store closures, with often nothing coming in replacement.
‘It’s ridiculous really. There must be 30 plus shops just sitting there empty right now, and it’s been like that for a while. They say a new one’s coming, but it never does. We were promised a Primark, New Look and even a mini IKEA years ago. Where are they?’ said long-time resident Theresa Cotton.
Nonetheless, there may be hope for the considerable proportion of locals feeling frustrated with the supposed lack of change. A Lidl is currently in the works, along with an impressive Sports Direct set to be located in the Exchange shopping centre. Even popular café destination ‘Paul’ has opened its doors near the station to the delight of many early morning commuters looking for a change from Pret. But is this enough to turn the High Street around?
‘It’s certainly on the right track’ said fellow local John Meadows who has lived in Putney for 28 years. ‘I appreciate that it will do many people good in the sense that it will provide jobs, much needed in such an uncertain time. However, it’s a shame to see only chain stores coming along, it’s better than empty lots though!’
As an area in which independent stores and boutiques once thrived, many citizens along with John find it difficult seeing the gradual shift to these nationwide chains. There is an underlying fear that visitors will just take the 10 minute walk over the bridge to Fulham instead, where small, niche shops are in plenty. A fight between survival and creativity; there must be a balance.
Putney’s future may not be perfect and certainly can’t be predicted (as we have learnt!). Nevertheless, there are still many new and exciting prospects destined for the area which are sure to please residents and tourists alike. Once the nationwide lockdown ends on December 2nd, do take a trip to Putney for a spot of Christmas shopping or even just a coffee. It may surprise you!
If you are interested in keeping up to date with local Putney projects and updates do check out @positivelyputney on social media. They are business-funded partnership working with the council and locals with the central goal of improving the area for shoppers, visitors and establishments.
