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, according to a poll carried out by GFK-NOP on behalf of ACS .

The findings send a powerful signal to Government as it prepares to publish its recommendations for the future of ‘Town Centre First’ planning policy in the next few weeks.

The same survey indicates that choice is the most important thing for people visiting town centres, with 77% saying that they want a mix of branded retailer, independents and market stalls in their town centres. In addition over two thirds of people, believe that they are not being given enough say in the planning decisions that affect their retail community.

The findings add weight to the burgeoning campaign to ensure a healthy future for the high street and for retail choice. Behind this, influential organisations including ACS, Friends of the Earth, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, the National Federation of Women’s Institute and Food Access Network are working together to provide consultation on proposed changes to planning policy.

The survey, which interviewed 1000 adults in the UK between 11th and 13th January 2008 revealed that 64% of people thought that 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 gives further momentum to our campaign at a critical time.

“Ministers have been very clear in their public commitment to a strong town-centre-first policy, as the time approaches to reveal detailed plans we are pressing for the detail to match their rhetoric. We will ensure that Government and MPs are well aware of the strength of feeling on this issue”

“This finding is a timely reminder to the Competition Commission that building more supermarkets is not the way to increase choice for consumers. The choice that people value is that between different types of store, not just between more large ‘clone’ stores.

“Working with other organisations we have set out a powerful and clear sighted vision for how policy can best meet the objective of promoting vital and vibrant town centres. We believe that with the weight of public opinion is on our side”.

Download the polling results here:   Polling Results