Bromley High Street voters ahead of the General Election

In just one week, on July 4, voters across London will head to the polls to elect their MP in the 2024 General Election.

In the 2019 General Election, the Conservatives won 365 seats and 43.6 per cent of the vote, while Labour secured 202 seats with 32.1 per cent, and the Liberal Democrats captured 11 seats, increasing their vote share to 11.5 per cent.

But could there be a change of attitude in the 2024 General Election?

The London Borough of Bromley is divided into three parliamentary constituencies: Bromley and Biggin Hill, Beckenham and Penge, and Orpington.

Bromley and Biggin Hill covers the northern part of the borough and includes the vibrant town of Bromley, known for its shopping and dining options, alongside the more rural area of Biggin Hill, famous for its historic airfield and aviation heritage.

Beckenham and Penge is characterised by its blend of residential neighbourhoods and lively high streets. Beckenham is known for its parks and community spirit, while Penge offers a mix of traditional and modern shops and restaurants.

Orpington, located in the south of the borough, is a key commercial hub with a strong community feel, featuring a mix of suburban housing and retail facilities, making it popular with families and commuters.

The Bromley and Chislehurst constituency, which ceased to exist following a boundary change this year, was previously represented by Sir Robert Neill of the Conservative Party, who stepped down on May 30, 2024.

The News Shopper visited Bromley High Street on Tuesday morning (June 25) to catch up with locals about what they like and dislike about their beloved town centre ahead of the anticipated election day.

One resident declined to comment because she "couldn't trust" any of the political parties.

‘Empty shop units’

Carol Mollison – a woman who took the all-new Superloop bus from Shirley to Bromley town centre, dubbed it as “brilliant”.

Carol said that her main concern for the high street was the high number of empty units and closed stores, describing the situation as "a shame."

She told the News Shopper: “I usually just shop at markets now because they’re brilliant, and I think more market traders could use the bottom of the high street.

“Parking in the area is an issue too.

“I went to Croydon recently which is close to me to buy some dog poo bags and it cost me £7 just to park there – I haven’t been there ever since.”

During the same visit, the News Shopper counted 10 empty shops from Bromley South station to McDonalds, which included a former Topshop, Wilkos and Laura Ashley store.

‘Lack of safety’

Guss has lived in Bromley for five years and said one thing he would like to see change would be an “improvement of safety”.

He told the News Shopper: “We have young people trying to steal from the shopping mall, and I think the safety could improve.

“I live five minutes from here and we see suspicious people walking around and in the car park.

“I don’t think the local government is doing enough – the area looks the same as five years ago.

“It’s good, but I don’t see any improvements.”

‘Improve the health system’

Audrey, a carer who has lived in Bromley for eight years, told the News Shopper that she frequently visits Bromley town centre as it’s just a short walk from her home.

“I come to Bromley town centre a lot,” she said, noting that weekends can be very crowded and there is often “rogue behaviour” which can be a “bit scary,” but overall, Audrey says it’s a “good place”.

However, Audrey expressed frustration with the political choices available, saying, “I don’t see who the right person is to vote for.”

She told the News Shopper: “Carers pay is very low and we have to work long hours, and I hardly get the time to eat.

“There could be loads of improvements to the health system, especially with carers.

“We need housing, we need food, and the health service is in a shambles.

“I need accommodation and a roof over my head, I currently live with my daughter and her husband.

“Who can I vote for in this government, with all of this going on?”