Littleborough residents believe Tesco will be built despite objections

Many residents in Littleborough believe the proposed Tesco will be built despite their objections.

The decision will be made at the Regulatory Committee meeting on Tuesday 28 January and residents say they think the decision has already been made and plans will be approved.

Eric Pulford, a Littleborough resident for 29 years said: “We are concerned that Tesco is likely to be given the go ahead to build their new store, regardless of the many objections from local residents and businesses alike.”

The application has attracted 166 letters of objection and 11 letters of support.

A petition against the planned build with 1,288 signatures has been presented to the council.

Eric added: “Most residents admit that they have already given up, wrongly believing that Tesco have the legal power and strength to get what they want.”

It is understood that despite plans not yet being approved, Tesco are advertising for jobs on that site - something that has shocked local residents. “How can they advertise for jobs when they haven’t been given permission to build yet?,” said Eric.

Tesco spokesperson Mark Thomas said: “We’re proud of the jobs we create in local communities. However, we commence recruitment for our stores at the very earliest 26 weeks prior to a store opening. Given that Property Alliance Group’s proposals for a store in Littleborough have not been granted permission yet and construction has in no way begun, there’s no reason for us to start recruiting at this stage. Vacancies connected to construction will be managed and advertised by Property Alliance Group.”

Littleborough is currently home to two small supermarkets as well as many independent businesses. It is understood that residents who do use larger supermarkets say they are happy to travel rather than having them in the town.

“The local unique businesses are likely to lose custom to the larger supermarket as convenience is key to many people. Many people do
use the larger supermarkets, however, we are quite prepared to travel to them, in suitably located positions, non residential in the main,” said Eric.

Residents feel that by building a Tesco store, the traditional town centre, which has taken years to become established, will be ruined.

Eric added: “Littleborough is the heart of our community and if these plans are to proceed, it’s believed that this will do extensive damage to the area we presently feel so proud of.”

The decision on the build will be made on Tuesday 28 January by councillors on the Regulatory Committee.