Final salvos exchanged in Tesco battle

RESIDENTS and businesses both for and against plans to build a Tesco supermarket in Ashtead have had their say.

The views were aired during a week-long public inquiry looking into two rejected planning applications to build a supermarket at the former Esso site in The Street, Ashtead.

Among those who had their say was Gillian Russell, the founding member of the Save Ashtead's Village Environment (SAVE) campaign group, which has opposed plans for the supermarket giant to build in the village.

Along with the Ashtead Residents' Association SAVE raised £25,000 needed to hire a planning expert and barrister.

Miss Russell, of Woodfield Lane, said: "It was obvious from the outset that on planning grounds the proposal was totally inappropriate and thus SAVE was borne. But even I have been overwhelmed by how enormous and powerful a movement it rapidly developed into."

She added: "We want to save our village from becoming a clone town. The proposed stores are simply too large for the site.

"Both developments are also contrary to the spirit of the times. In the past few years there has been a huge backlash against large supermarkets killing off local shops.

"The proposals would suck the life out of Ashtead where our independent shops are an essential part of its life blood."

Paul Le Versha, chairman of the ARA, also spoke. He said: "The issue for most people is one of scale. The proposals are simply far too big. These proposals threaten to damage the character and amenity at the heart of our community.

"Mr Katkowski [counsel for Tesco] described Tesco as an 'anchor'. I would say they are more like a cuckoo. Stealing food from the mouths of independent traders. Forcing users of the car park to go elsewhere. The cuckoo just wants to push them out of the nest."

Other people were in support of the plans.

A statement read out on behalf of Joy Wemms, who runs her Maths tuition business from The Street, says it would encourage businesses in the village centre by acting as a spur to competition.

She said: "Opportunity always comes disguised as hard work.

"We have a large derelict piece of land that is not only an eyesore but detracts from the overall image of The Street."

She added: "I urge the appeals panel to recognise the future of The Street depends upon the rapid conclusion to this issue."

She also said that passing the plan would ensure that Ashtead is a place where people both stop and shop.

Another trader in favour was Barbara Kay who runs the Bumbles gift shop in The Street.

"If we don't get the footfall there would be no growth," she said. "This is a plea for help. We need the passing trade to survive. The young mothers and elderly want a supermarket.

"To drive to another town and waste petrol to do the weekly shop doesn't help the local economy."

The inquiry is set to finish this week.