22 March 2006 - Plans to build a new DIY superstore near the A2 in Kent will destroy the area’s unique character, force locals out of business – and increase traffic congestion and related ill-health, a Euro-MP has warned.

Green Party MEP Caroline Lucas has called on Swale Borough Council to reject plans for a Homebase store on land at Bysingwood Road, Faversham – in line with Government guidance to concentrate development in town centres rather than ‘out of town’.

“Building a new DIY superstore will have a negative impact on the local economy, the health of local people, the environment – and the unique character of Faversham and Ospringe,” said Dr Lucas.

“And for what? There are already builders’ merchants near the proposed store, and a number of smaller DIY retailers, all of whom will be threatened by the presence of a new, unnecessary DIY superstore.

“Granting permission will inevitably lead to a negative impact on other local businesses, leading in turn to reduced choice for consumers and job losses: I urge planners at Swale Borough Council to act in line with government guidance and reject the plans.”

The South-East England MEP also told planners a new out-of-town store will exacerbate existing congestion on the A2, creating levels of traffic which could be detrimental to human health and the environment.

She added: “Some 20,000 High Street shops have gone out of business nationally since 1997 – that’s about 50 every week – mainly due to the dominance of the retail sector by out-of-town superstores.

“The reality is that out-of-town retailing undermines the fabric of communities – and I hope Swale Borough Council rejects this application and does whatever it can to protect the unique towns of Faversham and Ospringe from the onslaught of a new retail park.”

ENDS