Dear James Over the past 6 months or so independent businesses on lordship lane and grove vale have been closing at an alarming rate, with several others earmarked for closure. Of course, there are many contributing factors at play, but having spoken with a couple of businesses during their final days of operations, they told me that their main reasons for closure were: -increases in business rates -increases in rents -increased competition from established high street retailers who are able to afford the extortionate rents and rates on lordship lane. I was told by one business owner that either Boots or Superdrug are moving into the old Londis store. Now, I'm not sure if this is true and I?m unsure as to whether you are the appropriate person to raise this with; however I would very much like to save our high street! Lordship lane is so unique and a real gem in London. We are lucky to have it on our doorstep and many residents shop local to support these fantastic businesses. Are you able to do anything to further support our independent traders to enable them to continue operating? Thank you