Community Garden on site set for Tescos  

Caroline Lucas MP and campaigners challenge Tesco to pull out from the Lewes Rd Community Garden site.

Caroline joined with local Green Councillor Ian Davey, and the founder of the Lewes Rd Community Garden Cathy Marchand, in a meeting with Tesco's Corporate and Legal Affairs team this morning, to seek to persuade Tesco to review its decision to lease one of the shop units in the new development on the site.

Caroline said: "We had a very forthright and open discussion in order to explain to Tesco the strength of local feeling against their plan to open a store on the Community Garden site.

"It was clear that they had under-estimated the opposition, and didn't fully understand the specific circumstances of the particular area.

"We were very pleased that they have undertaken to review the situation, and to respond to us within two weeks."

Councillor Ian Davey, who has been involved with the garden site since its inception, said: "We really emphasized the strength of the local opposition, and the total unsuitability of the site for what they want to do.

"We stressed the likely impact on existing local shops in the area, and made a strong case that not only would Tesco alienate the local community if they go ahead, they would also suffer strong reputational damage themselves.

"We hope they will now reconsider their position."

Caroline concluded: "In its Corporate Responsibility Report, Tesco makes a strong claim about its willingness to listen to the community.

"It says 'We listen to people in the community from the moment we identify a site for a new store or an extension. We want to respond to suggestions and concerns people might have.'

"The test of Tesco's fine words will be whether its listens to the community in the Lewes Rd - and pulls out as a result."

For more information please contact Brighton and Hove Green Party on 01273 766 670.