Traders raise fears over discount store (From Harwich and Manningtree Standard)

Dovercourt traders raise fears over discount store

12:00pm Thursday 10th January 2013 in News

CAMPAIGNERS have said a proposed discount store would “decimate the high street” if plans go ahead.

According to the developer, T.J. Morris, the planned Home Bargains store, which sells everyday items from food to home furnishings at discount prices, would provide 45 jobs and provide a boost in trade for the town.

But Lesley Pollard and Martyn Donn, of the Harwich and Dovercourt Partnership, said the store could have a devastating impact on Dovercourt High Street.

Mrs Pollard said: “It is the worst kind of store for our town because they sell everything.

“There is not a retailer in the town that won’t be affected.

But Tim Rainbird, the agent for T.J. Morris, said Home Bargains would more likely compete with larger discount stores and supermarkets rather than high street retailers.

He said: “There is no real crossover in terms of the product range offered by Home Bargains and the shops in the town centre."