Tesco taking too much for granted in Condorrat?

A packed meeting at the Pollock Halls saw Condorrat residents flock to have their say about the controversial proposals to partially convert Condorrat Social Club into a Tesco Express.
By The Newsroom
Published 10th Apr 2014, 12:28 BST
The meeting drew a packed crowdThe meeting drew a packed crowd
The meeting drew a packed crowd

Although no plans have yet been submitted for the mini-supermarket, locals have been up in arms for weeks.

They fear the proposed outlet will kill off trade in Main Road and spark traffic chaos.

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The meeting took place last Thursday (April 4) and was attended by Tesco’s corporate affairs manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland Richard Holligan to discuss the hotly contested plans.

A spokesperson for Tesco said: “Proposals for a Tesco Express in Condorrat are at a very early stage but we were happy to attend to the meeting on Thursday evening – to answer local people’s questions and to listen to their views.

“It was definitely worthwhile and as promised all of the feedback we received will be considered as we proceed to the planning stage,’’ he added.

However,Stacey Egan of Condorrat Community Council said: “Unfortunately, all of the concerns the community had to begin with still remain.

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“The Tesco representatives couldn’t seem to give definitive answers to most of the questions they were asked, especially those surrounding the effect that the proposal would have on the existing shops, increased traffic and parking issues.’’

“They did not speak of the proposal in terms of if they secured planning permission, more as when they secured planning permission.

“Interestingly, they said the only reason that would prevent them from opening was if they did not obtain a license to sell alcohol!

“Therefore we will continue with the campaign to object to the proposal as the case presented by Tesco did not abate the communities concerns in any way.

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“Feeling were made quite clear.Tesco is not wanted or needed in Condorrat village.’’

MP Gregg McClymont also attended the meeting and admitted to his own misgivings.

He said: “As a Condorrat resident as well as the local MP I was unconvinced by Tesco’s case.

“The transport and logistical issues surrounding the proposed store on a narrow main street are substantial, the impact on local independent traders unknown,

“The the huge turnout last night of local residents indicates the strength of local feeling against this planned store,’’ he added.

Related topics:TescoProposalsNorthern Ireland