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Protesters gather as Tesco plans finalised
CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a supermarket in Layton have been finalised.
Tesco has submitted its plans for the superstore on the site of the Windmill pub on Westcliffe Drive and Blackpool Council’s planning committee will discuss the proposals on November 9.
But a campaign group against the plans, which has attracted more than 150 traders and neighbours, will gather inside and outside the planning meeting to protest.
Cath Hurley, treasurer of the Layton Traders Association, who runs Ragamuffins on Westcliffe Drive, said protesters would “fight to the end”.
She added: “We have had more than 3,000 people sign the petition against Tesco in Layton.
“We are going to fight to the end to stop it. Since the plan was submitted in August, traders have met every other week to discuss what to do next.
“Up to 30 people are allowed in the gallery when the application is discussed at the town hall on November 9, but there will be many others gathering outside to protest.
“Residents love the Windmill, and we hope there will be developments within the pub if the application is dismissed, and the brewery allows it.
“This has really brought the community together.”
A total of 76 representations about the plans have been lodged with Blackpool Council – four petitions and 72 individual responses, with 71 people against the proposals and one supporting Tesco’s scheme.
Denise Mattinson, of Card and Party, on Westcliffe Drive, added: “Only yesterday I rang around asking people if they would support us at the meeting.
“Already I have got more than half of the public gallery filled, so by November 9, we will have a crowd outside.”
Gordon Marsden, MP for Blackpool South, is campaigning to block the application, claiming the proposal would “suck the life” out of the village.
He said: “The plans for a Tesco in this area have the potential to suck the life out of a successful high street area and increase traffic congestion in what is already a tight road network.
“This development could significantly destabilise a thriving and well-supported local shopping area.
“If it was felt there was a need for these facilities in an area that requires extra provisions for the local residents then I would support it.
“These proposals would drastically harm local businesses on a high street that has all the facilities it needs.”
Mr Marsden has informed Ian Ward, the head of development control at Blackpool Council, of his objections and has requested they be forwarded to committee members as soon as possible.
Tesco were unavailable for comment.
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Weather for Blackpool
Sunday 27 May 2012
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Temperature: 14 C to 27 C
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