The economic climate in Crouch End is a cause for concern. Despite retaining its charm, the number of vacant commercial properties is increasing. Our recent Retail Health Check Reports (2024 / 2023) paint a bleak picture of the current situation and future outlook.

Now, more than ever, policies are needed to bolster and safeguard Crouch End’s economy. Consultations with local residents have highlighted common concerns: the town centre’s tattiness, traffic congestion on high streets, high rents and business rates, and competition from online and nearby shopping areas. Addressing these issues is crucial to Crouch End’s future prosperity. The survival of the area’s unique independent shops, cafes, cultural venues (cinemas, arts centre), and sports facilities (gyms, studios) is at stake.

We propose several policy measures to enhance Crouch End’s appeal and economic vitality. These include design codes for shop fronts and signage (e.g., timber fascia, non-illuminated internal signs, heritage preservation with allowances for innovation), policies to encourage employment opportunities (e.g., flexible workspaces, restrictions on repurposing existing business premises), and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) projects to improve the town centre (e.g., wider pavements, increased greenery, support for flexible retail spaces or pop-up markets, public art installations).

These are just a few potential solutions to revitalise Crouch End’s economy. As we finalise our Neighbourhood Plan, we urge you to share your thoughts and suggest additional support measures. Please contact the Crouch End Neighbourhood Forum with your feedback.

The Forum is working on a series of policy options for the Neighbourhood Plan.

(image: Fergus Redican)