The trade of goods and services in the centers of the cities is environmentally friendly. Fewer long fossil-fuel trips to shopping centers outside the city are required. Then it's nice to have a lively center and crime decreases as there is healthy life and movement in the center.
Also MP in Gothenburg appreciates that there is trade in the center now. But then shouldn't one reduce the number of parking spaces in the city, as the red-greens are doing today in Gothenburg?