7 November 2004 - The Green Party has thrown its weight behind the campaign against the proposed new Tesco store on Unthank Road (by the junction with Trinity Street). Councillor Adrian Ramsay, whose Nelson Ward includes much of Unthank Road, is attending the meetings of the Residents Against Unthank Tesco campaign group and is helping them with their fight.
Councillor Ramsay said: "Since Tesco first submitted a planning application for this site, I have been contacted by a large number of my constituents - the vast majority of whom are opposed to the plans. It is good news that the initial application has been withdrawn. It seems that Tesco has done this to buy more time for the leafleting campaign they are about to start in the local area to try to influence public opinion as they re-submit the application. The Stop Unthank Tesco group is therefore making an impact. But it is important that the group continues to remain strong and organised to give Tesco and the Council a clear message about the reasons why the vast majority of local residents are opposed to the plans.
"An Unthank Road Tesco would have a devastating effect on the local area. It would generate more traffic and create car parking problems. The lorries servicing the store would no doubt cause noise pollution and congestion. Furthermore, a new Tesco could threaten the survival of the current businesses in the Unthank Road area, and on Vauxhall Street, many of which are local, independent businesses which the Green Party is very keen to protect and promote. These businesses are part of the unique character of this part of the city and a vital part of an environmentally and economically sustainable local community."