The number of pharmacies in England’s high streets has plummeted by 650, it has been revealed.
The losses have left so-called “chemist deserts” in some areas.
One in every 18 chemists has shut since 2016. But in the worst-hit places a third have gone.
Among the locations to have suffered the biggest losses are Bradford West, Pendle, Torbay and Hove which have all lost between a fifth and a quarter of their high street pharmacies in the last six years.
But the most seriously affected is Bristol East, which has lost a third of them.
Chemists said a mix of sky-high business rates, poor financial recognition for their role and competition from online rivals selling medicine supplies had conspired to force so many to close their doors.
And they warned the trend would only continue unless the government stepped in to help them.
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, which represents many family-run businesses, said: “In the past six years, almost 650 pharmacies in England have closed their doors for good – and more are set to follow.
“Most have disappeared because of the increasing financial burden placed upon them. The attitude of our health service towards pharmacies is “something for nothing”.
“They’re asked to do more and more, for no commensurate reward.”
The Department of Health said: “We are committing over £2.5billion annually over five years to support community pharmacies in better integrating with the NHS.”
