A commercial property syndicate specialist has said that the death of the High Street is "an overdone narrative" in key locations like Above Bar, Southampton.

Craigard said that retailers and food and beverage operators are still creating "strong demand" in the city.

Matthew Barker, Craigard investment manager, said: "In Southampton alone, along Above Bar, the vacancy rate is virtually zero per cent.

"This is a strong retail location, anchored by one of the region’s largest shopping centres.

"With further regeneration projects like the £132 million Bargate Quarter coming through, the economic environment will be further enhanced."

Craigard let 17 Above Bar to burger chain Wendy’s on a new 15-year FRI lease with a tenant break at 10 years.

The 249 sq m (2,677 sq ft) ground-floor unit had been vacated in October 2024 by fashion chain John Anthony, now part of Frasers Group.

Upstairs on the first floor, long-term tenant China Sky remains a destination restaurant in the city.