MEMBERS of Leek’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce have taken to the streets to shout about why an in-town supermarket could become a lifeline.
Leek chamber of trade consultation event - Marc Briant and Richard Wilson
With heated debates currently surrounding the proposed Leek supermarket developments, chamber members were out in force on Saturday to generate public opinion as they campaign for an in-town supermarket development.
A chamber spokesman said: “We received very positive feedback on Saturday, and it provided us with the perfect platform to explain why we would prefer an in-town supermarket development.
“We hope that many people take a proactive stance by contacting the local planning department stating that they feel the proposals will have a negative impact on the town.” At a recent chamber meeting, members voted unanimously in favour of supermarket developments in Leek, provided they were located within the town centre.
“Our message is simple — we want to see Leek as a viable, vibrant market town and we believe that an in-town supermarket development would become a lifeline for the town centre redevelopment of Leek,” said the spokesman.
“Having reviewed the council’s master plan, we feel that the best site for a supermarket would be the Compton Mill area with a pedestrian bridge to the Pickwood site.” On Saturday, members of the public also had their say, and although some felt Morrisons needed competition, many felt a new supermarket could be detrimental to the town.
Mrs S Dickinson, from Longnor, said: “I come to Leek each Saturday to shop. I buy my fruit, vegetables and meat from the town centre and get everything else from Morrisons. I don’t think Leek needs any more supermarkets.”
Leek resident Mr Stubbs said: “Leek should do what Bakewell have and that’s one supermarket in the town — it preserves the town centre. There needs to be more thought.”