Save Tolworth, Stop Tescos

22.11.06

Tolworth does not need the new megastore proposed by Tescos.

The traffic and related pollution it would bring would, in my view, choke an already over-congested, over-polluted roundabout and approach roads. So I hope the whole community can come together to campaign against this massive planning application.

To be against this proposal of Tescos, is not to be against any development on the old MAFF site by Charrington Bowl. Nor is it to be against Tescos itself.

My view is that Tolworth could benefit from more investment, and the wider community needs more affordable housing. Too many local families are struggling with over-crowded accommodation – and the challenge of getting on to the housing ladder in the first place, with sky high local house prices.

Yet Tescos’ proposal won’t achieve the type of regeneration Tolworth needs – nor provide the type of family accommodation that’s in short supply. Their own figures suggest shops on Tolworth Broadway will suffer. In too many other places, a new superstore has sucked existing business dry, and led to boarded-up shops. The housing proposed is both too dense and seems designed to hit housing targets set down by central Government and the Mayor for London, not to meet the needs of our community.

So I’ve launched a new campaign – “Save Tolworth, Stop Tescos” – with a new website and online petition. Please visit www.everylittlehurts.org.uk to find out more and sign up.