I HAVE been a resident of Bromley for more than 12 years and in the last couple of years have become increasingly dismayed at the dramatic deterioration of Bromley town centre and The Glades.

Notwithstanding the impact of the current recession on the demise of certain chains of stores, there appears to be an increasing number of cheap and tacky shops both in The Glades and in the High Street.

I admit I am not a fan of Primark but I do consider this "dumbing down" of Bromley to have coincided with the arrival of shops such as Primark and TK Maxx.

Who exactly is Bromley catering for? Certainly not the demographic profile of its residents.

Not so long ago Bromley was considered a sophisticated place to shop with smart stores and restaurants.

The decision by Bromley Council to welcome Primark over John Lewis was bizarre and certainly signalled the death knell for this once thriving, upmarket town centre.

I fear that it won't be long until the last few decent shops disappear, leaving in their wake an even more dirty and cheap looking town.


J Sewell