Thank you to everyone who attended last night's meeting and those who were unable to attend but left messages of support. Here is our "press release":
Around 70 people of all ages filled St. Matthews Church hall last night to attend the presentation on the plans that have been submitted by Walmart ASDA for a large supermarket and medical centre in Silverhill. The presentation was followed by a discussion and individual views and concerns were heard. Residents were most concerned about the increased traffic and congestion which will inevitably be caused by people from all over Hastings and surrounding areas visiting ASDA as well as the medical facility. Noise, light pollution and 18 months' of building work with the associated disruption are further worries as is the relocation of the bus stop and loss of parking spaces to local residents. There was a general feeling of community spirit, which residents agree is largely due to the small local shops and long established businesses in the area which serve as a focal point and which must not be jeopardised. All agreed that there is simply no need for a large supermarket in the area which is already well served by two very large and several smaller supermarkets. The meeting was also attended by Conservative Councillor Matthew J Lock, who will present a petition from last night's meeting to the Planning Committee.
A further meeting is planned shortly and details will be announced in Silverhill shops as well as on this forum.
Here is a copy of a leaflet handed out at the meeting with some suggested reasons for objection as well as details of who to write to-