A new report suggests that relocating healthcare services onto Britain's high streets could generate a £13 billion boost for struggling local businesses while easing pressure on the NHS. The proposal reflects growing interest in repurposing empty shops and town centre premises for GP surgeries, pharmacies and other health services, aiming to tackle both high street decline and NHS capacity issues simultaneously.

Proponents argue that bringing healthcare closer to where people already shop would increase footfall for surrounding retailers and hospitality businesses, helping revive areas hit hard by store closures. It would also potentially shorten waiting times and improve access to care by using more convenient, centrally located sites rather than relying solely on traditional hospital and clinic settings.