Independent retailers are celebrating after receiving news that Tesco has pulled out of plans to build a new store in Belsize Park.
Proposals to open a new Tesco Express store in Belsize Park, north London, emerged over the Christmas period last year after the supermarket submitted an application for an alcohol licence in December.
Campaigners fought against the proposals, creating a petition against the move which gained over 3,000 signatures. This was backed by protests held outside the former HSBC site, where the Tesco was due to be built.
Led by high-profile Budgens retailer, Andrew Thornton, and backed by support including Emma Thompson, comedian James Corden, Tom Conti (pictured with Andrew Thornton) and Dame Janet Suzman, the campaign has ended in success.
Welcoming the news, Andrew Thornton said: “The whole community is over the moon that all their hard work has paid off. No-one wanted another Tesco in the area, there is already one a four minute walk away from the proposed site, as well as others further into the borough.”
A spokesperson for Tesco said: “We have reviewed our proposals for the former HSBC site in Haverstock Hill. Having been unable to reach an agreement with the landlord, we have made the difficult decision not to proceed with plans for a new store. We’re very grateful to everyone who supported our proposals and will continue to work hard to serve the local community from our other stores in the area.”
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