29 August 2013
West End Report
The Say No to Tesco campaign – set up by local residents and shopkeepers in response to plans by the supermarket to open a store at the base of the new Montague Apartments development – is stepping up a wider fight this week.
Hard copies of a petition are being made available to local people at a number of shops including Roots and Fruits, on Great Western Road, and Kiosk, in Park Road.
Ellie Harrison, one of the campaign’s organisers, says the Say No petition is not simply about one specific store but is aimed at opposing moves by big-chain supermarkets to open smaller outlets in areas where they may threaten the livelihoods of established and independent neighbourhood shops.
Harrison, who lives in Woodside, said: “We’re starting off locally but intend to open this up and address the issue on a city-wide level.
“A number of these supermarket stores are popping up across the city, a Sainsbury’s opened only last year just along Great Western Road from where this lastest Tesco is planned. And Tesco have opened stores locally in Maryhill Road, Queen Margaret Drive, Byres Road, Dumbarton Road, Argyle Street and North Street.
“This is having a devastating impact on our local businesses. My favourite shops are Garden Fresh Exotics and Roots and Fruits – and I want to help make sure they are saved.”
The supermarket giant has confirmed their plans for a Tesco Express at 341 Great Western Road.
A spokesperson said: “Our new store will form part of the new Creme Developments project, which will be bringing back to life a vacant site with retail units and new flats.
“The new store will create around 20 jobs and will be opening its doors to customers this year. As always, we will work with local partners to recruit locally and more information on recruitment will be available shortly.”