Traders oppose move to open Tesco Express store
TRADERS and shoppers have backed a petition against plans for a new Tesco store on their historic shopping parade.
The retail giant is rumoured to be looking to open a new Express convenience store on the High Street in Sutton Coldfield but rival shops fear they will be forced out of business.
Sutton Coldfield’s historic, narrow High Street, which is detached from the main town centre shopping area, is home to local businesses such as estate agents, hair salon, cafes and the Royal Hotel pub.
Tesco is believed to have earmarked the Quality House building next to the Royal Hotel as a possible location.
The petition has been raised by Peter Harding, owner of the College News shop. He argues Tesco has a large enough presence in the Royal Town already.
He said: “There is already a Tesco Express near to the Empire Cinema on the Birmingham Road, that has already stopped a few businesses from trading. Also on Rectory Road just before Good Hope Hospital is the One Stop shop which is a subsidiary of Tesco.
“The new store will have nowhere for the articulated lorries, at first with the shop-fittings and then stock, to park. They will have to park on the main road where the road is only wide enough for two cars. This will cause more congestion we don’t need.”
He has been backed by councillor Ewan Mackey (Con, Sutton Trinity), who is presenting the petition to Birmingham City Council. Cllr Mackey said: “The residents of Sutton Coldfield deserve a broad selection of stores sup- pling a wide basket of goods from both local traders and national chains. Entrepreneurs create uniquely distinct businesses that add individual character to an area, create jobs and entice people to come to an area.
“That is not to say there is not a place for the national chains who fulfil an important role we just need to ensure there is a choice for the consumers of Royal Sutton Coldfield and beyond.
“There is a tight-knit business community on the High Street that works together and adds to the character of the town, operating out of and maintaining the old historical buildings one of which is believed to be the oldest building in Sutton Coldfield. If the High Street was to only contain national chains, a lot of individual charm would be lost.”
Tesco did not confirm or deny that it was considering opening up. A spokeswoman said: “We’re always interested in ways to serve our customers even better in Sutton Coldfield and continue to look at opportunities to do so.”