The pandemic has triggered changes in our commercial centres, Hampstead village and South End Green. Quite a few retail outlets and eating establishments have closed, and new arrivals have replaced some of them. During consultations on the Neighbourhood Plan, the make-up of our high streets was among residents' top concerns.

It is vital that Hampstead retains a vibrant economic life and our high streets remain a hub for residents and visitors alike. The shifts to working at home and online shopping have raised questions: what will we need in future in our urban centres? What will help them thrive? How can we as residents influence outcomes?

The Forum has set up a group to study these questions. Your views will drive this project and we will be holding consultations. Please send your thoughts to highstreets@hampsteadforum.org

Read a column by Stephen Taylor, Forum chair, in the Ham&High here.