AFTER news a major retailer was possibly planning to “set up shop” in Portland Road (The Argus, April 15), I wanted to know what residents thought about a supermarket being built on their doorstep and delivered a survey to most households in the area. We had hundreds of replies and 68% were against the proposal. Also, 81% were concerned about the possible impact of the proposed store on independent retailers while 74% were apprehensive as to whether there would be sufficient parking. These results have been passed to councillors.

I believe diversity is good for communities and there is a balance to be struck between convenience and long-term sustainable communities. Both have their place and we ignore the ben-efits of a varied retail community at our peril.

Mike Weatherley
Conservative parliamentary candidate, Hove and Portslade