Shock at council's Netto stance
CAMPAIGNERS have been shocked by Todmorden town council's decision to recommend approval of the proposed Netto supermarket on the site of the former Olympia cinema and Abraham Ormerod Centre, on Burnley Road.
Several concerned residents attended last Wednesday night's town council meeting at which the plans were discussed to outline their arguments against the scheme.
But after a lengthy debate, councillors voted in favour of the supermarket plans, much to the disbelief of the campaigners.
Emma Cranidge, who spoke at the meeting on behalf of the campaigners, said the councillors have voted to wipe away Todmorden's proud market town heritage in one move.
Tony Thomas, of Ham Corner on Todmorden indoor market, fears the town is losing its character.
"I have not spoken to anybody in Todmorden who wants a Netto," he said.
"If they put a Netto in Todmorden, it will drive a stake through the heart of Todmorden.
"Some traders are talking about moving away if there's a Netto.
"I think it will be changed to an Asda within 12 months."
Mr Thomas, who also attended last week's meeting, was very disappointed with the town council's decision.
He said: "If the council thinks that by putting a Netto in there everything's going to be rosy in the garden, I think they are on the wrong horse.
"We have not been able to sustain three supermarkets in Todmorden for 40 years.
"The Abraham Ormerod Centre was ground-breaking when it was built but it's about to be flattened.
"Todmorden's character is dying fast.
"Rather than looking for a new supermarket I think it's time to look for a new town council."
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Halifax
Wednesday 30 May 2012
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 11 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 10 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: West
