Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has met with Haddington traders and members of the local Traders’ Association to discuss Tesco’s plans to move its town centre store to an out of town location.

The MSP originally met with the Traders’ Association back in 2008 on the same subject and Tesco has just recently lodged a formal application to the Council. The MSP is now making a plea for as many people as possible to sign his online petition against the proposal which can be found at www.jimhumemsp.comJim Hume MSP: South of Scotland

Jim Hume said:

“Haddington is a vibrant and healthy market town centre made up of a good number of independent traders who rely on the footfall from people shopping at the nearby town centre Tesco store.

“The benefits in having the Tesco store where it is are many. People do their shopping in Tesco, but then take a short walk across to the high street where all the smaller shops are. Not only that, but Tesco provides parking for people coming into the town meaning that shoppers are encouraged to stay for a long time and spend their money in the town so there are also fears about the future of town centre parking.

“If Tesco’s application is approved and the store is relocated to a site on the outskirts of Haddington, I believe that there could have a very negative impact on local trade because of the far away location and because the proposed larger store would sell clothes, electrical and other household goods which are already catered for through high street shops.

“The Council must put the future economic viability of the town at the top of its agenda and in my view that means the retention of the Tesco store where it is. I shall be making a comprehensive representation to the Council shortly which will reflect that view.”

Notes:

Attendees of yesterday’s meeting included:-

1. Mr Ian Gibson of Gibsons of Haddington
2. Mr John Main of J S Main & Sons
3. Mr Colin Wright of the Malt Kiln
4. Ms K Green of TV and Video repair Centre
5. Ms B Simpson of Betty’s Quids In
6. Mr M McKimmie of Mackay’s Stores Ltd