18 January 2008, 21:04 PM
  • According to a poll carried out by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), three-quarters of people are opposed to any changes in UK planning law that would make it easier to build out-of-town supermarkets.

Some 77% also said they much prefer a mix of branded retailers, independent stores and market stalls when visiting a town centre, while more than two-thirds said they did not have enough say in retail planning decisions. A further 64% thought large out-of-town shopping centres and supermarkets were harmful to town centres.

ACS chief executive, James Lowman, said, “Public opinion is clearly against any move to liberalise planning laws regulating out-of-town shopping centres.

“It is important that Government understands that not only is there a consensus of opinion amongst environmental, social and consumer champions, but the public also agree.

“This finding is a timely reminder to the Competition Commission that building more supermarkets is not the way to increase choice for consumers.”