The South Somerset Greens are highlighting the importance of the local economy in their push for the local elections, pointing out that the ‘Big 5′ superstores already account for over 80% of the food retail business, and 41% of towns in the UK are now ‘clone towns’ with more than 50% of their shops part of national chain.
They say local traders are correct that new superstores are unnecessary and would do great damage to many small independent businesses which add to the area’s character and diversity.
And they claim successive governments and South Somerset District Council have done little to use the planning system to protect small businesses from the expansion of multinationals who are more interested in profit than community.
Ben Hartshorn, Green Party candidate for the Crewkerne ward of South Somerset District Council told the PRSD: “Local stores provide much wider social and economic roles that are central to the idea of ‘sustainable neighbourhoods’.
“More than half the turnover of independent retailers goes back into the local community.
“They also meet the needs of the disadvantaged, socially excluded and elderly, particularly those with a lack of mobility who cannot access more distant shops.
South Somerset Green Party District Councillors say they will support and encourage local businesses to stay in the area. Greens want to see lower rates for independents to help them get established, and have five points they’re keen to pursue:
- Establish ‘High Street Hubs’ in key vacant shops to accommodate activities that help develop local economic sustainability, such as local food distribution and tool share/ exchange schemes
- Make residents equal partners in the council’s ‘Master Planning’ processes
- Build in well-being measures in addition to sustainability into the council’s procurement policies
- Support and help grow local Community Land Trusts
- Pursue the principles of ‘Shared Space’ in public space development
Ben said: “Sadly, we can expect no help from the Coalition Government and their Lib Dem supporters on South Somerset District Council. It will remain a constant battle to oppose each new adverse planning application and to do all we can to keep our local character. Greens have a range of positive measures that would bring diversity back to our High Streets – the Green Party is ready to fight to keep the clone towns away.”
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