Merton Liberal Democrats set out plans for a thriving local economy

Merton’s high streets face empty shops and neglected public spaces, with regeneration projects like Morden stalled for years. Local businesses under pressure from rising costs, including Government national insurance increases. Liberal Democrats highlight borough’s strong cultural and entrepreneurial foundations as key to future growth.

Merton Liberal Democrats have set out their plan for a Thriving Local Economy, outlining how they would revitalise the borough’s high streets and support local businesses as part of their 2026 election manifesto.

The plan forms part of their ‘Six to Fix’, six key priorities they say will shape their agenda if elected, and comes amid growing concern about the state of Merton’s town centres. Across the borough, residents report rising numbers of empty units, alongside neglected streets, pavements and public spaces.

The Liberal Democrats argue this decline reflects a failure by the Council’s Labour leadership to prioritise local economic growth. They point to Morden as a stark example, where long-promised town centre regeneration has stalled for a generation and plans have been secretly pushed back to 2041.

At the same time, local businesses are facing mounting pressures from the Government’s increases in employer costs and new regulatory burdens. The Liberal Democrats argue that these challenges are making it harder for independent traders and start-ups to survive and grow.

Despite this, the Liberal Democrats highlight Merton’s strong economic and cultural assets. With theatres, libraries and cultural venues across the borough, they say Merton has the foundations needed to build a vibrant local economy.

They say their plan for a Thriving Local Economy will focus on breathing new life into town centres, supporting small businesses, and making high streets more attractive, accessible and community-focused.

Cllr Anthony Fairclough, Leader of the Opposition said:

“Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, yet they are being squeezed by rising costs and a lack of support. That has to change.

“We want to create distinct identities for our high streets and town centres, and use new powers to bring empty shops back into use. 

“We want to explore better public transport links to the east of the borough, where poor transport connectivity has held back growth and opportunity. 

“We are clear that Morden redevelopment must be supercharged. Residents have been waiting for 30 years for action.

“Our borough is rich in independent shops, pubs and restaurants. There are many start-ups, an award-winning National Trust site, and a creative economy stretching from William Morris’ workshops, through the film industry of the 1950s and 60s, and on to today’s tech sector.

“For those who choose to live and work here, the Liberal Democrats want to see a thriving local economy in Merton, one that celebrates our creativity, supports our businesses, and brings our high streets back to life.”