An Irish town has revolted over a bid to prevent new supermarkets being built by Tesco and Dunnes, the two big players in the grocery sector.
Tipperary Town Council had granted planning permission for the developments on the outskirts of the town, which has a population of around 7,000.
But RGDATA, the small grocers’ organisation, fearing that such heavyweight competition could put local shops out of business, has lodged formal objections to both projects with the Irish Planning Appeals Board.
Now the townspeople have hit back, organising a public petition in support of the new stores. It has been sent to the Planning Board, backed by 5,000 signatures.
A local councillor, Denis Leahy, criticised RGDATA for “trying to create the impression the objections are coming from business people in the town”.
Far from being opposed to the developments, he said, local traders acknowledged the town needed a mix of outlets to attract shoppers and that everyone would benefit from the extra business.
A key factor in local support for the developments is that Tesco has said its store will create 125 new jobs, while Dunnes is promising more than double that number. The Planning Board decision is expected next month (April).
Tipperary Town Council had granted planning permission for the developments on the outskirts of the town, which has a population of around 7,000.
But RGDATA, the small grocers’ organisation, fearing that such heavyweight competition could put local shops out of business, has lodged formal objections to both projects with the Irish Planning Appeals Board.
Now the townspeople have hit back, organising a public petition in support of the new stores. It has been sent to the Planning Board, backed by 5,000 signatures.
A local councillor, Denis Leahy, criticised RGDATA for “trying to create the impression the objections are coming from business people in the town”.
Far from being opposed to the developments, he said, local traders acknowledged the town needed a mix of outlets to attract shoppers and that everyone would benefit from the extra business.
A key factor in local support for the developments is that Tesco has said its store will create 125 new jobs, while Dunnes is promising more than double that number. The Planning Board decision is expected next month (April).
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