Sutton residents have shared a wide range of ideas for what they want to see in the borough by the end of 2026, from major retailers and leisure attractions to safer streets, community spaces and fewer tower blocks.
We took to the Sutton Guardian Facebook page and asked readers what they wanted to see this year.
Hundreds of responses followed, touching on shopping, transport, development, healthcare and the overall atmosphere of the town centre.
Here’s what Sutton Guardian readers said when we asked them what they would like to see.
Shops and town centre life:
Retail was by far the most common response; with many residents saying the high street needs to feel like a destination again rather than somewhere people simply pass through.
Anne Powell said she wanted “a decent department store again”, and Dor Phillips called for the return of “shops like Wilko, Woolworths and BHS”.
Others suggested specific brands including Zara, Next, Clarks and HMV, while Mary-lou Cross mentioned discount retailers such as Home Bargains and B&M.
Luke Allen said Sutton needs attractions as well as retail, suggesting “Boxpark, bowling with arcades, youth centres and a market like the old days”.
Richard Gianella also supported more events and venues, calling for the reopening of the Cock and Bull pub and “another music venue that's more populist”.
Several readers said independent shops and markets would help restore character to the town centre and encourage people to stay longer.
Parking, transport and street safety:
Accessibility and safety were raised repeatedly by commenters.
Free or cheaper parking was frequently requested, with some readers saying current charges discourage visits.
Concerns were also raised about the growing number of delivery bikes and scooters in pedestrian areas.
Daisy Elizabeth said she wanted “police on the high street” and e-scooters banned, while Pauline Soane called for “no more delivery bikes speeding down the high street”.
Ann Ni and Huw Chandler also mentioned e-bikes being ridden on pavements, and several residents said they felt pedestrians were being pushed aside.
Potholes and road maintenance were also mentioned multiple times.
Together, the responses suggested residents want the town centre to feel safer and easier to move around on foot.
Housing and development:
Building height and density appeared frequently across the comments.
Trevor Hennessy said simply: “Less tower blocks,” a view echoed by a number of others including Elaine Moulson and Lynn Jackson.
Some residents linked high-rise developments to pressure on local services and changes to the character of the area.
Others said they would prefer investment in shops, community spaces and facilities rather than additional flats.
Public services and facilities:
Healthcare provision featured prominently, with several readers calling for a new hospital building or more appointments.
Sally Gale said she wanted “a hospital building that's fit for purpose”, while Joy Bentley called for “more hospital appointments”.
Community venues were also highlighted.
Peter Mead said he wanted to see the Secombe Theatre fully refurbished and reopened, while others mentioned youth clubs, leisure centres and hobby spaces such as workshops.
These responses suggested many residents see social and cultural spaces as just as important as retail.
Community atmosphere:
Alongside physical changes, many residents focused on the town’s atmosphere and behaviour.
Teresa Gora said she wanted to see “more kindness” and people talking on public transport, while Juliana Rayman simply called for “manners”.
Some residents also mentioned policing and tackling crime as part of making the town centre more welcoming.
