Littleborough's unique identity threatened by Tesco development

Simon Danczuk MP

MP Simon Danczuk has expressed caution over proposals to build a Tesco store in Littleborough, warning its unique identity could be threatened by the development.

Mr Danczuk said it was important that planners took into account a need to preserve a distinct identity and also looked at the impact of major Tesco stores elsewhere.

“It is worrying when you look at the impact of Tesco nearby,” he said. “The introduction of a Tesco in Middleton town centre has seen empty shop rates more than double. There are many people worried that it could do the same in Littleborough and I share their concerns.

“Littleborough is a great place and its many independent shops give it a unique selling point. Having such a distinct identity is a very precious commodity nowadays and we can ill afford to lose this.”

He added that all over the country, from Totness to Todmorden campaigns were springing up to protect a sense of community and local identity.

“You only have to look up the road at the successful campaign in Todmorden that refused planning permission for a Sainsbury’s supermarket to realise that this is an emotive issue,” he said. “Planning permission was refused there because it was considered to have an adverse effect on local businesses.”

Adding that he had met with representatives of the developers recently, Mr Danczuk said he was still waiting for them to send him research that had been promised to show how the proposed development would benefit Littleborough.