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Uxbridge Road Campaign Targets Betting Shops and Fried Chicken

Financial Times Companies •
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Residents of Uxbridge Road in west London are campaigning to diversify the high street, which they say is dominated by betting shops, vape stores, money exchange outlets, mobile phone repair shops, and fast-food outlets—particularly fried chicken. The Fix Uxbridge Road campaign, led by Noor and supported by campaigners like Nigel Singh and Stefanie Dietrich, argues the area has become 'hollowed out' with an imbalance of similar businesses. They cite concerns about vulnerable populations being targeted by gambling premises near schools and pubs, and the proliferation of takeaways, with at least 21 fast-food outlets on the stretch—almost half being fried chicken shops.

Last year, the group gathered nearly 3,000 signatures for a petition to Hammersmith and Fulham council to 'restore' the road’s visual condition. A recent win came when an adult gaming centre application was withdrawn after police opposed it due to existing gambling concentration. Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s crackdown on vape stores, betting shops, and 'rogue businesses' aligns with their goals, though residents note planning rules limit councils’ ability to revoke licences for existing outlets, creating a 'catch-22' situation.

The campaign continues to push for greater diversity and improved visual condition of the high street.