Frequently Asked Questions
Hayesfield urgently need new sports facilities. Where else is the money going to come from?
I'd like a Tesco's - why shouldn't I have that choice?
Unfortunately in this case one person's choice is another person's lack of choice.
For every supermarket that opens an average of 276 jobs are lost (for more information see Supermarket threat).
The supermarket will attract people who previously shopped elsewhere (rocket science hey!?)
This shift in spending will result in a drop in profits for small shops that could make the difference between them staying open and closing.
Now, if you're using Tesco's then you probably won't be too bothered about that.
But the elderly, infirm, those without cars - those whose choice is using their local shop, won't be able to exercise that choice any more.
They'll have to find a way of getting to the Tesco - probably by taxi or car. That'll cost them money they'd have previously spent on food.
If you want to use a Tesco's, there are number in the area - or shop over the internet.
In this case one person's choice is another person's lack of choice.
St Martins doesn't need to be included in the plans - or at the very least they should be consulted (something which hasn't happened). The other part of the site is Hayesfield Playing Fields - building on this has been subject to consultation.
The Hayesfield Playing Fields could be sold off for housing (including affordable housing for local people).
Given what a poor state the facilities are it would not be unreasonable for the local authority to contribute towards the cost.
Despite having had increasingly poor facilities for many many years, there has not been a concerted fundraising effort for funds for new facilities.
Many people would willingly contribute to prevent the consequences of what is being proposed.
Hayesfield have said they need £5m over several years to build a sports centre.
