SJohnston

Last updated 00:00, Friday, 18 January 2008

THERE was a defining moment at Tuesday’s planning meeting which approved a new Tesco Extra superstore in Workington.

An objector stood up and said: “We may as well rename the town Tescoville.”

He was, like many others, concerned about Tesco’s retail dominance, with its largest store in Cumbria likely to offer just about anything you could wish to buy; in effect, a village within the town.

That brings major challenges, not least for those small traders who fear they will be victims of this supermarket sweep.

Others, fingers crossed, hope that Tesco will draw more footfall to their own doorsteps.

The manager of Workington’s revamped town centre, mindful that some shop units remain un-let, has voiced serious concern for the impact on business there.

Opposition to Tesco continues from those who argue that the Cloffocks is a public space bequeathed to the townsfolk.

There were many heartfelt speeches at the planning hearing, although council minds were already made up.

The council urges people to see a wider picture, which has Tesco adding to Workington’s profile as a shopping destination.

There is also the £18 million sale cash which will go into regeneration of the Derwent Valley area for sport and leisure.

The council will appeal to that silent majority who are quietly rejoicing at the shopping convenience offered by the new Tesco.

But you cannot just buy a town centre success story off the shelf.

This go-ahead requires careful handling; there must be a place for the Uppies and Downies, the town centre requires much more effective marketing, and cheap and accessible parking is a prerequisite.

There can be winners in this supermarket sweep - but it won’t be easy.