A jaw-dropping video has surfaced, showcasing the eerie sight of an abandoned high street in Waterlooville, Hampshire, likened to scenes from a zombie apocalypse by locals.

Aaron Bastani shared a clip filmed by his wife’s friend visiting her childhood town, capturing the desolation of the once-thriving shopping area. Rows of derelict and closed shops, spray-painted graffiti, and an overall ghostly atmosphere painted a stark picture of neglect.

The footage documents a disheartening journey down memory lane for the narrator, who expresses shock at the dilapidated state of what used to be a vibrant hub. Boarded-up buildings, vandalised storefronts, and an absence of life paint a stark contrast to her nostalgic recollections.

Among the few signs of activity, a Sue Ryder charity shop stands open, albeit with boarded-up windows, highlighting the stark reality of a decaying high street.

Aaron Bastani’s social media post accompanying the video shed light on the divide between the stark reality of struggling high streets across the UK and the detached perception of politicians and the media. The clip resonated with over 11,000 likes and elicited more than 900 comments, reflecting widespread shock and dismay.

Responses poured in, attributing the decline to various factors, from pedestrianisation and landlord policies to local government failures. Suggestions ranged from repurposing the area into a park to emphasising the need for a cultural shift to revitalise such locations.

The troubling scene arrives amid the backdrop of a nationwide cost-of-living crisis, soaring inflation, and escalating energy costs that have taken a heavy toll on retailers. Online shopping’s convenience, coupled with rising expenses and challenges for brick-and-mortar stores, has contributed to this decline.

Official statistics reveal a record number of closures in 2022, with more businesses shutting down than opening—a concerning trend reminiscent of the global financial crisis. Major brands collapsing, store closures, and relocations underscore the shifting landscape of UK retail.

While some retailers have adapted by relocating and opening new stores, the haunting sight of dereliction in once-thriving town centres highlights the urgent need for revitalization efforts to breathe life back into these neglected high streets.