“Deal High Street is thriving and has a good balance of chain stores and independents. The town council has improved pavement, layout and lighting whilst maintaining traditional charm.

Deal and Walmer Chamber of Trade do an excellent job looking after the interests of local businesses and the community have responded by shopping local.”

“My biggest complaint is lack of parking, and the parking cost if i am lucky enough to get a slot. At the hypermarkets, it is free but in the High Street i have to add on the cost of parking to the cost of the shopping. The only answer is to provide free parking but that won't happen as the councils rely on the revenue from car parks.”

“In Tonbridge, we are campaigning to pedestrianise the High Street, to make it a congenial public space free from car fumes and congestion. Our campaign, PATHS (Pedestrian Action for Tonbridge High Street), seeks to implement many of the ideas put forward by Mary Portas. We want to see more market stalls, independent stores and cafes. So far we haven't had any support from the local council but our feedback from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. You can find us on Facebook.”