FROM the rise of online shopping to expensive parking, lots of people are worried about the future of our high streets.

In recent times Debenhams, Patisserie Valerie and Marks & Spencer have all found themselves in difficulty.

Santander is closing its Culver Street West branch and the Post Office is moving into WH Smith.

The Gazette surveyed readers and asked what they thought about the future of Colchester town centre.

While many said they still visited the town centre to shop, hundreds said they were concerned what would happen in years to come.

In total, 531 said they still shopped on the high street - equivalent to 60 per cent - while 359 said they did not.

Asked why they avoided using the town centre 36 per cent said it was down to expensive parking, 24 per cent said there was more choice online and 21 per cent said they could not get what they wanted in store.

In total, 67 per cent of people who responded said they were worried about the future of the high street.

Shoppers were divided on the merits of online shopping vs being in store.

Deborah Stephens said: “I like to see the colours, feel the material and the quality.

“Sizes are all over the place and trying is essential.

“Also pictures on internet show clothes pinned on 6ft size 8 aged 20 models.”

For many shoppers the cost of parking in Colchester influenced their decision on where to shop.

Roger Marriage said: “Parking is such a pain now, having to decide how long you will be and have the right change, I have a parking App on my phone but couldn’t get a signal so I left and went out of town.

“Free parking as well, what’s not to like.”

Stacey Farrington said: “The parking is so expensive you may as well order online, kids are happy and less stress on you plus post and packaging isn’t as expensive as the fuel/time/parking charges.”

Poll

Do you still shop online?

Yes - 531 votes (60%)

No - 359 votes (40%)

Why do you avoid the high street?

Parking is too expensive - 325 votes (36%)

There is more choice online - 214 votes (24%)

I can't always get what I want - 192 votes (21%)

Other - 135 votes (15%)

The shops are too busy - 32 votes (4%)

Are you worried about the future of the high street?

Yes - 433 votes (67%)

No - 181 votes (28%)

Don't know - 35 votes (5%)