Pitshanger Lane - A Very Special High Street

Winning plaque unveiled and locals and traders celebrate

John Martin, Dr Patricia Walker and Marcus Jones MP

Pitshanger Lane was officially recognised as the Best British High Street in London today.

It was awarded the title earlier this year after the public were asked to vote for their favourite high street. It faced competition from Great British High Street finalists Raynes Park High Street in Merton and Roman Road in Tower Hamlets.

But competition judges who visited the Lane praised its “great community spirit, social media campaign and commitment to supporting local retailers.”

Today, a plaque was unveiled by Minister for Local Government, Marcus Jones MP and Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Dr Patricia Walker.

Traders, residents and local school children turned out en masse to enjoy the celebrations.

Councillor Dr Patricia Walker said: “Pitshanger Lane has a delightful variety of independent shops and small businesses. The traders should feel very proud of their achievements and I would encourage everyone to pop along and see what makes it such a deserving winner.”

Estate agent John Martin, chairman of Pitshanger Village Traders Association hosted the plaque unveiling and led the campaign to win the competition. He said: “Pitshanger Lane has 50 plus independent traders who work very hard to keep their businesses going and work very well with the community. We have a great community spirit and people come and support us. They spend their money here rather than go anywhere else.”

Mr Martin also thanked the council for its support during the competition.

Mr Jones MP said: “I can see why this high street is the best high street in London. You have created a community hub. You cannot get what you have here by online shopping and you cannot get what you’ve got here at an out of town retail park. What you’ve got here is very, very special.”

24th May 2016