Unfortunately we have now got the high streets we created ourselves. As soon as we let supermarkets start selling absolutely everything, with their buying power, they could undercut any small retailer. And at first we thought it was wonderful. All goods so cheap, and under one roof.
Now, we are reaping the "rewards" of our previous shopping habits, and the last year has only served to exacerbate the situation. So many have reaped the benefits of online shopping and ease of returns if it's not quite what they want.
I am saddened to see the demise of so many small retailers, as well as the bigger chains that have fallen, but accept that the high street that we knew and loved has gone forever.
It seem we now want the high street to be there for us when we want it, maybe for browsing or researching products, but not to buy from.