Letter: Whitchurch should decide over Tesco store

Letter: I have been reading with interest the debate on Tesco's proposed new store in Whitchurch and, having visited the public display recently, would make the following points.

If Tesco wants to build a new store in Whitchurch the only way in which it should be allowed is if residents and taxpayers are happy with the deal proposed, and this should show considerable gain to the whole community not just small sections of the community.

I would propose Tesco should build a sports and leisure facility in Whitchurch with a new swimming pool and gym facilities and sports hall. This would leave a long lasting testament to Tesco's commitment to our community, not just to the rugby and hockey club.

This would enable the pool to be demolished and the fire station moved and I am sure another piece of land could be acquired, creating the space to enlarge the current Tesco store.

With even more imagination they could even perhaps find a petrol station with enough room for a Tesco Express. We do not want to end up like Stafford were there was a new Tesco store built and the old one has stood empty ever since.

The whole idea of Tesco building in Whitchurch should be about what the community gains not what Tesco gains. It's our town.

I am not a Tesco fan but I have no axe to grind if the deal offered is fair to the community first and then to Tesco. It should be given a fair hearing by the people of Whitchurch, not the town planners; we can listen to their recommendations.

Ultimately, the people of Whitchurch should be given the choice about the future of retailing in there town.

R P Venables

Whitchurch