Concerns grow over Proudfoot’s future in new supermarket plan
Five hundred sign petition to block store ‘three times size of Tesco Express and twice Co-Op’
Proudfoot owner claims a rival supermarket’s plans to open on the doorstep of the firm’s Newby branch could result in 15 job losses.
Scarborough businessman Ian Proudfoot says the family firm, a fixture in the community for over 60 years, could be forced to undergo a major “reconfiguration” if Sainsbury’s is allowed to open in Scalby Road.
Sainsbury’s claim the shop will benefit the community, but Mr Proudfoot claims if it’s built, he may have to sell the firm’s Eastfield warehouse and head office - and may even consider selling the entire retail business.
The claims come in a letter to Scarborough Council, one of dozens that have flooded into the Town Hall from residents concerned about the supermarket giant’s plans.
More than 500 people have signed a petition aimed at persuading Scarborough Council to block the planning application, with dozens more writing formal letters of objection.
The Sains bury’s branch would be twice the size of the Co- Operative s t ore at Newlands, three times the size of the Tesco Express in Burniston Road, and 12 times the size of Scalby Stores.
A petition will be dropped off at Scarborough Town Hall this afternoon by campaigner Tina Boden, on the eve of the objection deadline.
Last Saturday, Tina held an event at Proudfoot’s for the community to learn more about the proposals, which would see the old NatWest bank demolished in order for Sainsbury’s to erect a new shop.
“I felt it was important that members of the community were aware of the development proposals,” said Tina.
“There seemed to be little knowledge among residents of what is to happen to the former NatWest site.
“For me a consultation process is important and should be part of the planning approval.”
She added: “Those who shop with the independent businesses in Newby and Scalby, Proudfoots, Newby Service Station and Scalby Stores, want to ensure their livelihoods are not affected.”