A major new study has exposed the ten unhealthiest high streets in the West Midlands, painting a concerning picture of how local environments could be impacting public wellbeing.
The Health Index Findings
The Independent Pharmacy conducted a nationwide data analysis, scrutinising 419 UK high streets to create a unique 'High Street Health Index'. Researchers used Ordnance Survey data, focusing on streets longer than 700 metres, to assess the concentration of various establishments.
The results for the West Midlands show that areas in Coventry, Birmingham, and Solihull rank alarmingly high for their density of outlets considered detrimental to health. These include a high number of pubs, vape shops, and fast-food takeaways.
The Top 10 Unhealthiest Streets
Here is the breakdown of the West Midlands high streets that featured in the national unhealthiest list, based on their overall score out of 100.
Stratford Road in Solihull (B90 4AY) claimed the top spot locally. It scored 60.71 out of 100 and ranked 75th nationally. This street hosts 2 vape shops, a staggering 67 takeaways, 15 sweet shops, 4 gyms, 3 off licences, and 6 pubs or bars. Its air quality score was recorded at 27.
Foleshill Road in Coventry followed in second place. With a score of 59.15 and a national rank of 83, it features 1 vape shop, 47 takeaways, 10 sweet shops, 6 gyms, 4 off licences, and 4 pubs or bars. The air quality here was measured at 36.
Walsgrave Road, also in Coventry, took third place. It achieved a score of 56.57, ranking 95th across the UK. The road contains 2 vape shops, 30 takeaways, 5 sweet shops, 1 gym, 1 off licence, and 5 pubs or bars, with an air quality index of 36.
Coventry Road in Birmingham was close behind in fourth. It scored 56.31, placing it 98th nationally. This street has a notably high number of vape shops at 5, alongside 64 takeaways, 13 sweet shops, 4 gyms, 7 off licences, and 4 pubs or bars. Its air quality was the lowest on this list at 19.
What This Means for Communities
This research, published on 10th November 2025, highlights a clear link between the retail environment on our doorsteps and potential health outcomes. The prevalence of certain types of shops, combined with variable air quality data, suggests that where people live and shop can significantly influence their lifestyle choices.
The findings serve as a crucial talking point for local authorities, public health officials, and community groups about the future shaping of our high streets and the importance of creating environments that support, rather than hinder, healthy living.
