Debenhams’ downfall

SIR – I am saddened that we will lose 50 Debenhams stores (Business, October 25), which are so much a feature of our high streets and shopping malls.

The Chancellor, Philip Hammond, needs to act fast to put a retail tax on online sales, and should lower the sky-high business rates that shops have to pay. If he doesn’t, we will lose most shops. There will be no more days out at the shops with family or friends. People will get less exercise and spend even more time online. The public won’t realise what they have lost until it’s too late.

Ann Wills

Ruislip, Middlesex

SIR – The recent downturn in the fortunes of Debenhams, following so closely on that of House of Fraser, must surely turn minds towards creative ways of regenerating our city-centre shopping areas. The losses in revenue and the consequences for local economies are great, and there are only so many charity shops and takeaways that can thrive.

Given the demand for housing, boarded-up shops and defunct shopping arcades provide readymade brownfield sites. These have the potential to bring people closer to remaining retail outlets and create opportunities for a different kind of city environment: perhaps a modern version of the corner shop, which succeeded when transport was less easily available.

Dr Robert J Leeming

Coventry, Warwickshire