According to a poll carried out by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), three-quarters of people are opposed to any changes in UK planning law that would make it easier to build out-of-town supermarkets. Which perhaps is not a totally unsurprising poll result seeing as the ACS is ‘the voice of local shops’.

They also suggest that 77% would prefer a mix of branded retailers, independent stores and market stalls in our town centres. A high 64% thought large out-of-town shopping centres and supermarkets were harmful to town centres. Which I think is pretty much agreed on.

ACS chief executive, James Lowman, said, “Public opinion is clearly against any move to liberalise planning laws regulating out-of-town shopping centres.

“It is important that Government understands that not only is there a consensus of opinion amongst environmental, social and consumer champions, but the public also agree.

“This finding is a timely reminder to the Competition Commission that building more supermarkets is not the way to increase choice for consumers.”