Demo against Unthank Tesco
Around 50 people staged a demonstration against the new Unthank Tesco as the store opened its doors for the first time. Protesters are still angry that the company won planning permission, despite strong local opposition. Local resident, Richard Watt said: “I’m here because Tesco apply for planning permission across the country. They are routinely rejected by local councils but the planning inspectorate approve the plans, irrespective of local views. It’s an outrage.”
Lynda Edwards added: “It’s a disgrace that Tesco have been stream-rolling their way into the local community.” Another protestor, Simone Chimowitz said: “I’m against the way they’ve forced their way in here. We all feel very strongly that Tesco have ridden rough-shod over local people.”
Organiser of the protest, Chris Hull, a former Green councillor said they’re also concerned about the effect Tesco will have on local shops: “What we want to point out is there are so many independent shops - butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers, post office – that need local support.”
Adrian Ramsay, a Green Party Councillor for Nelson ward, which starts on Unthank Road, has played an active role in the Residents Against Unthank Tesco campaign since it started in 2004. He has pledged that he will not use the new Tesco store:
“I will continue to support the local businesses in the area. We cannot allow the opening of this Tesco to be at their expense. I know that there is a strong feeling among residents in the area that we need to unite behind the independent businesses. Research shows that a pound spent in a local business is almost twice as beneficial for the community as the equivalent spent in a supermarket like Tesco.”
The new store will be officially opened this morning, when the ribbon is cut by the manager of the Unthank Road Break shop, who will receive a cheque for £500 for the charity from the supermarket chain.
Other local people have said they will shop at the new Tesco, as it’ll save them driving by car to another supermarket. On Twitter, in reaction to the story that shoppers were planning to boycott the store, some people commented: “I bet it’ll be just as popular as any other Tesco.”"People need to get a life and accept change.”
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Following the opening Tesco issued this statement. Their spokesperson, Carol Leslie said: “We are absolutely delighted with the response we received. Trade definitely exceeded our expectations and the feedback from customers has been tremendous.”