Monster Milngavie Tesco plans given the thumbs-down by the town
PEOPLE in Milngavie have said an overwhelming NO to the building of a monster new Tesco store in the town.
A poll conducted by MP Jo Swinson showed that the vast majority are dead set against the superstore's expansion plans.
Now a public meeting has been organised where people can voice their opposition.
Tesco want to demolish the existing store at Gavin's Mill and replace it with a two storey car park and a new two-storey superstore close to Woodburn Way, where the existing car park is, and link the two buildings with walkways.
Ms Swinson recently sent a survey to every household in MIlngavie and of the 1,000 who completed it, the overwhelming majority thought the scale of the new store is too big and the buildings too high.
The MP said: "Comments from most respondents indicated that they find the expansion plans inappropriate for Milngavie and worry that it will threaten local businesses and the atmosphere of the precinct.
"The results of this survey are pretty conclusive — the people of Milngavie are not happy about Tesco's plans. Milngavie precinct is unique in its picturesque style and it would be a great shame if that was spoiled by the unnecessary expansion of Tesco.
"There are also many much-loved local shops which could be threatened by the plans."
The MP also raised the issue in the House of Commons, highlighting the "excellent range of independent stores in Milngavie and the negative impacts the Tesco plan may have."
Eve Gilmore, from Milngavie, is determined to see off the proposals and has set up a campaign opposing it on her website.
She has helped organise a meeting in the Fraser Centre, Milngavie, on January 14 at 7.30pm to debate the issue.
Eve believes the overwhelming majority of people would appreciate an upgrade of the existing store rather than a re-build and proposes inviting Tesco top management to the meeting.
The planning application was lodged with the council in the summer and the planning department has confirmed representations on the proposals will be taken until mid January.
Eve's website is on www.welikemilngavie.org and she can also be contacted via e-mail on info@welikemilngavie.org.
Tesco say they have been consulting for a year and their spokesman said: "We have received some very helpful comments which have helped to develop our proposals.
"We know from talking to our customers that they want to see an improved choice and range in Milngavie."
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Weather for Milngavie
Wednesday 23 May 2012
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