For Sir Keir Starmer and Labour, this is a major political problem as well as an economic one. Research by the University of Southampton found that improving high streets was near the top of most voters’ priorities, behind only healthcare and reducing crime. The failure of governments to offer more than sticking‑plaster solutions is fuelling resentment in places where faith in politics – and the promises of mainstream parties – is at rock bottom. Recent polling found that 62% of voters who are considering backing Reform UK believe their local area is in decline.