New Sainsbury’s to open in Leam

Sainsbury’s, the second largest chain of supermarkets in the UK is set to open a second store in Leamington Spa with less than two miles distance between the two supermarkets.

The proposal for a 2,368 square foot Sainsbury’s local convenience store at the site of a pub – The Oak Inn on Radford Road – was refused  by Warwick District Council’s planning committee 12 months ago.

However, the company lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate and the appeal was accepted.

Refurbishment work has now begun, however, many Leamington residents have signed petitions against the opening of the new Sainsbury’s, arguing that road safety and traffic problems could arise.

There were also concerns that it would harm the business of independent grocery retailers in the local area, like Rai’s Supermarket.

Distressed about the future of his family’s business situated across the road from the site, Narinderpal ‘Nikky’ Rai of Rai’s Supermarket described the upcoming project as an “unscrupulous attempt” by Sainsbury’s to “take over the grocery trade” in the area.

Saujanyaa Gupta, a Leamington resident and a Master’s student at Warwick University, commented: “I really don’t think we need another supermarket considering there are already so many, especially when Sainsbury’s already has a huge store two-three miles away!

“It is such a waste. Besides, the people in locality should have a say in the matter, which has been overlooked in this case.”

Mrs Amanda Williamson of Beaconsfield Street wrote in a letter of objection: “We feel [the further increaseof supermarket chains] jeopardises local businesses who have been established in the community for many years.

“Locally owned shops help to support and sustain other local businesses in the area, support local organisations and generally help maintain good community spirit in this part of Leamington.”

Miss Joanne Woodworth, who resides in Leam Street, was more concerned about the impact on the character of the residential area. She wrote her letter in capitalised letters: “As a very local resident I can say without doubt this is not wanted.

“We have a community spirit and do not want the traffic or people that such a commerical venture would bring. I do all my shopping at Sainsbury’s but will revert to the new Morrisons in protest should this be opened. Neither myselfor family will support any future Sainsbury’s outlet.”

On the contrary, Mr Matthew Cox, a resident living in Leam Street, acknowledged that a new supermarket chain was necessary: “It is not possible for [small localshops] to provide the type of produce that we require on a regular basis and I know therefore that we would make far greater use of a larger local store.”

However, he argued that: “the design of the new build seems to have no relation to the surrounding buildings nor the Oak Inn structure itself. I therefore object to the design and to the entire proposal until such time as a more sympathetic new build is included in the plans.”

Sainsbury’s stated that the new venture will create 20 to 25 new jobs and also provide extensive variety to the residents.