12th September 2008

West Gloucestershire Green party have condemned moves to have a Tesco in Cinderford. See Cllr James Greenwood's letter to the local press.

I would urge the Forest of Dean District Council to challenge the accepted wisdom of 'retail development' and throw out the new Tesco application for Cinderford.

The idea of a supermarket 'regenerating' a town has become accepted dogma amongst Councils.  Much is made of the jobs created, without any account of the jobs lost.  Much is made of investment, when sucking money out of the community is the name of the game

It is widely recognised in Lydney that their Tesco has done little for the town.  5 years ago, every retail unit in Lydney was occupied.  Now, there are thouands of square feet of empty shop space.

One of the main problems, of course, are the crippling cost of Business Rates that prohibit the many and varied entrepreneurs who want to start up and run businesses in our town centres.

The Council must make decisions that will help local people and businesses develop a thriving local economy for the long-term.

Best wishes,
James Greenwood

Local Party Contact - West Glos Green Party