Tory drive for out-of-town retail revealed (Northampton Liberal Democrats)

Northampton Liberal Democrats <info@northamptonlibdems.org.uk>

Tory drive for out-of-town retail revealed

March 31, 2010 12:00 AM

Conservative MP, Brian Binley, is flying the flag for out-of-town retail in Northampton

Following last week's public debate, Conservative Councillors at the Guildhall have tabled a motion, calling on the Liberal Democrats to 'urgently review planning and regeneration policies with a view to removing barriers to out of town development'.

A full text of the motion can be read on the Council's website:

http://www.northamptonboroughcouncil.com/councillors/ieListDocuments.asp?CId=242&MId=6122&Ver=4

Responding to the motion, Planning & Regeneration Spokesperson, Cllr Richard Church (Lib Dem, Kingsthorpe), said:

"Our view is crystal clear: we must safeguard our town centre, if we are to secure the longer-term prosperity of Northampton.

"Conservative Councillors argue that 'competition drives prices down'. Fine, but unbridled big business outside our town centre will drive the small businesses we have to close their doors.

"This will now be a keenly contested local issue at the General Election.

"Northamptonians have a clear choice between Conservative candidates, in favour of ever more out-of-town megastores, or hard-working, local candidates in Andrew Simpson and Paul Varnsverry, who are prepared to stand up for Northampton's small businesses.

"The question for local people is this: do we want our town to be hollowed out, like countless U.S towns and cities, or do we want a vibrant county town, full of thriving small businesses and a growing number of high-street stores at its heart?

"Ultimately, it's for them to decide at the ballot box."

ENDS