'How has this been approved?'- residents react to new Specsavers announcement
“So we've now got three opticians on a small town high street. Why has this been approved?”
The UK's biggest optical retailer has confirmed to the Gazette that its latest Fylde Coast store will open in Garstang after agreeing a lease for the former NatWest bank building on the town’s High Street.
Since then, residents from Garstang have been voicing their opinions on the plans.
One concerned resident questioned: “I thought the conservation area meant that large chains were not allowed on the high street? That's why Subway ended up where it was. So we've now got three opticians on a small town high street. Why has this been approved?”
Garstang already has four opticians on its small high street, leaving some locals concerned that Specsavers may affect the business of independent shops.
One person said: “I would much rather use an independent optician over Specsavers,” with another added: “I’ll be sticking with the opticians I've been seeing for decades. They’ve always been brilliant.”
Many residents are delighted with the news. One person noted: “At least the building will not be left unused, although I will continue to use my independent opticians in Garstang.”
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Another added: “Excellent news, although I'm sure the existing opticians will continue to satisfy the options for all. An empty building on our high street isn’t good for anyone. All we need now is a home baker.”
One man also said: “Do you not think it would bring more business and people into the town and therefore boost the economy for the other independent retailers,” with another commenting: “Fantastic, save petrol or bus fare for trips to Lancaster.”