As UK high streets face decline, Guardian readers debate solutions. From supporting Brixton's markets to local art revivals, discover if consumer choice or community action holds the key to survival.
The Office for Environmental Protection warns England and Northern Ireland will miss key wildlife goals. Flood and wildfire risks are rising. Read the damning report.
Britain's town centres face a point of no return with 13,500 shops lost in 2024. As organised crime moves in, Reform UK capitalises on the 'high street emergency'. Discover the local fightback.
Cuba faces a devastating 'polycrisis' of mass emigration, economic freefall, and demographic collapse. One in four Cubans have left in four years. Can the regime survive?
Analysis reveals Donald Trump's immigration crackdown cannot halt America's demographic shift. For the US to thrive, it must embrace a browner future. Explore the data behind the population dilemma.
Britain's foundational industries are in crisis, with jobs halving since 2000. High energy costs and policy are to blame. We must revive this vital sector as a national priority. Read the full analysis.
The UK construction sector has now declined for a full year, new data reveals, putting Labour's target of 1.5 million new homes by 2030 in serious jeopardy. Read the full analysis.
A major think tank predicts 2026 will mark a permanent demographic shift in the UK, with deaths exceeding births. This could mean fewer workers, higher taxes, and a renewed debate on immigration. Read the full analysis.
Warmer Arctic winters bring more rain, which freezes into ice layers and blocks reindeer from their food. Research links this to falling herd birthrates. Discover the challenge for Arctic wildlife.
The UK is set for a historic demographic shift in 2026, with deaths exceeding births. This long-term trend could mean fewer workers and higher taxes, putting immigration policy in the spotlight. Read the full analysis.
Once dominant, Scandinavian clubs now lag behind Europe's elite. We analyse the financial and structural gaps, and ask if Nordic women's football can ever compete again.
Next's share price surged as festive sales jumped 10.6%, driven by online and international growth. The retailer also upgraded its profit guidance. Discover the full trading update.
Next upgrades profit forecast after UK sales rise 5.9% over Christmas. The retailer warns of slower growth ahead amid UK employment pressures. Read the full analysis.
High street chains Claire's and The Original Factory Shop enter administration, putting 2,500 UK jobs at risk. Owner Modella Capital cites weak consumer confidence and government policies. Read the full story.
Two major high street chains, Claire's Accessories and The Original Factory Shop, have collapsed into administration, threatening around 2,500 UK jobs. Read the full story on the latest retail casualties.
Owner Modella starts insolvency proceedings for both high street chains, citing 'extremely challenging' trading conditions and a pre-Christmas footfall slump. Read the full story.
High street retailers Claire's and The Original Factory Shop are preparing to appoint administrators, threatening over 2,000 jobs. Learn about the causes and the bleak outlook for UK retail.
Major UK retailers Claire's and The Original Factory Shop are on the verge of administration, threatening over 2,000 jobs. Sky News reveals the bleak start to 2026 for the high street. Read the full story.
Cornish clothing brand Seasalt is expanding with 10 new UK stores in 2026, betting on market towns and sustainable fashion despite retail challenges. Discover its growth plans.
Nearly 300 politicians and campaigners call on PM Keir Starmer to abolish the 'aim to permit' rule, arguing it leaves councils powerless to stop new betting shops and 'slot sheds' on UK high streets.
A letter to the Guardian argues the BBC must establish truly local radio stations in Scotland and Wales to fill the void left by declining regional newspapers and give communities a voice.
River Island, Poundland, and Cancer Research UK are among the major names shutting shops in 2026. Check if your local branch is on the closure list.
Which? unveils the UK's best high street travel agents for 2026, based on a survey of 2,500 holidaymakers. Discover the top-rated providers for expert advice and exceptional service ahead of the busiest booking day of the year.
Italy faces a severe demographic crisis with births plummeting to 379,000 in 2025. Explore the economic and social 'perfect storm' causing this collapse and its profound implications for the nation's future.
China introduces a 13% VAT on contraceptives while exempting childcare services, aiming to reverse a declining population. Experts debate the policy's effectiveness and potential risks.
Major UK retailers Poundland, Primark, and River Island are closing multiple stores in January 2026. Check the full list to see if your local high street is affected.
Nouriel Roubini argues Europe's existential crisis is economic and technological, not cultural. US GDP grew 87% vs EU's 13.5% since 2008. Can reforms save the continent?
Britain's voluntary sector is struggling with a severe financial crunch, rising costs, and falling donations as demand for services soars. Can Labour's 'covenant' offer a lifeline?
Greggs, the beloved UK bakery chain, was founded in 1939, a year before McDonald's. Discover how it grew from a delivery bike to over 2,450 shops with vegan rolls and gold jewellery.
McDonald's seeks to extend Sutton High Street hours to 5am daily. Councillors to decide amid noise and child safeguarding concerns. Read the latest.