Residing next to a demolished ghost town, whose homes were razed following the abandonment of a planned new estate, presents a desolate, wasted sight.

In the heart of Walsall, West Midlands, and Southend-on-Sea, Essex, two once thriving areas are facing a challenging period. The historical leather and saddle trade town of Walsall, known for its vibrant retail destination, and the seaside resort of Southend-on-Sea, are both grappling with the consequences of incomplete developments and empty shops.

In Walsall, the shopping centre is home to more than 40 empty units, a stark contrast to its bustling past. Local businessman Harcharan Pala, who runs Revolution Records, has been operating in Walsall for eight or nine years and has witnessed the disappearance of big brands like Debenhams and M&S. The town's decline has been a long and painful process, with shoppers increasingly heading to larger cities or retail parks instead.

Meanwhile, in Southend-on-Sea, the half-built homes at Meadow Grange have been abandoned since 2023. Originally touted as a new and exciting pocket of its own nestled between coast, city, and countryside, the 131 new homes were left unfinished when one of the developers went bust. Advertising boards remain up around the area as a reminder of what was promised, while building materials and concrete beams remain at the site.

Residents living next to the botched development are especially angry, feeling as if they've been "lied to". One local, Mark Poxon, expressed his disappointment in the waste of money and the derelict state of the site, particularly because it was built on the green belt. The search results do not contain information about who abandoned the apartments at Meadow Grange or why.

However, there is hope on the horizon for both Walsall and Southend-on-Sea. Walsall Council is undertaking a £1.5 billion regeneration program aimed at reviving the local economy and attracting more visitors and businesses. Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader of Walsall Council, believes that the council is working to create an environment that attracts people into the town centre.

A Guinness Partnership spokesperson stated that they are working to get the Meadow Grange development back on track and provide much-needed affordable homes. Nearly a quarter of the town's 150 central retail units are empty, but without urgent action, residents fear the heart of Walsall could disappear for good. Similarly, around one in four residents in Walsall are economically inactive.

The abandoned homes at Meadow Grange fell into disrepair, with weeds sprouting up and underlay sheeting blowing away. After being abandoned, the homes were eventually torn down, leaving only the foundations sticking out of the ground. The sad state of the site serves as a reminder of the potential that remains unrealised, but there is a determination among locals and council members to turn things around.

As both Walsall and Southend-on-Sea navigate their struggles, they stand as examples of the challenges faced by many towns and cities across the UK. The hope is that through regeneration and renewed investment, these once thriving areas can regain their vibrancy and attract people once more.