Thanks for the outstanding work, looks nice quality as well…

(Image courtesy of flickr user Hedgeman.)

The arrival of the Tesco superstore close to Lower Bath Street has generated passionate debate, is Tesco good or bad for Ilkeston?

Positive

People argue

• Tesco has provided valuable service jobs in an area where traditional manufacturing has declined. See posts on Stanton.
• that the store has widened the appeal of Ilkeston, raised its status, the store has a high threshold and was drawn shoppers from across the local area.
• that as a result of Tesco, shoppers also visit Ilkeston High Street,
• That Tesco will encourage the regeneration of Lower Bath Street, as businesses hope to cash in on business by association.
• Tesco is a good neighbour, investing in the development of infrastructure and footpaths around the site, as well contributing to local community projects.

Negative

People argue

• The location of Tesco in Ilkeston has resulted in a decline in trade for independent stores, and resulted in the decline of the Morrisons store, an important anchor for the multiples of Upper Bath Street.
• As a result, employment has been lost.
• Consumers also have less choice.
• Those who visit Tesco, don’t walk into Ilkeston, who really wants to walk the hill? Alternatively, drive to a car park and pay for the pleasure.
• The bypass has effectively cut the town in two, people will just drive to Tesco with ease, avoiding Ilkeston.
• Tesco doesn’t cater for everyone, the elderly may have to use public transport or taxis, remember the eight pound taxi fare! (Tesco has provided a free bus service to the store in the past- does this still happen?)
• Tesco doesn’t reinvest its profits in Ilkeston, as a national company it uses national rather than local contractors, the profits ‘leak’ elsewhere. 
• Traders were also unhappy with the mezzo level to the store being developed, nicely getting around planning regulations. It allowed Tesco to stock a wider range of goods, thereby creating more competition for the High Street.
• As for the regeneration of Lower Bath Street, the evidence is there to see!

Anything I’ve missed…

What is your opinion?

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4 comments
Posted in My place, People as Consumers
Written on Wed, 02 May 2007 at 9:01 pm

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