VILLIERS: CAMPAIGN AGAINST UNNECESSARY NEW SUPERSTORE CONTINUES

Addressing a meeting of over a hundred local residents at St James' Church in East Barnet Road, Theresa Villiers, MP for Chipping Barnet, has confirmed her opposition to Asda's planning application for a superstore in New Barnet.

The meeting took place on Thursday and was organised by the Save New Barnet Campaign and the New Barnet Community Association (NBCA).

Following the meeting, Theresa Villiers said, “I pay tribute to the brilliant work of the Save New Barnet Campaign and the New Barnet Community Association in organising a hugely informative meeting to analyse and discuss the planning application Asda has submitted for a new superstore.”

“What I have learned this evening has firmly confirmed my view that this proposal for a superstore in New Barnet would not be good for our community here. I have been concerned from the outset about the impact of increased levels of traffic if the superstore goes ahead. The meeting was told the bad news that Asda’s proposals would mean a thousand more cars an hour at peak time.”

“Another source of major concern is that the new store could have a detrimental effect on surrounding retailers, with the impact felt beyond New Barnet to Whetstone and Barnet High Street as well.”

“I will continue to oppose this planning application and support the excellent campaign being run by local residents on this important issue. I would urge people to take part in the planning process by submitting their views to the Council. Full details of how to do this can be found at the Save New Barnet website at www.newbarnet.org.uk.”