Radio station backs traders in Tesco war
ROYSTON radio station Roysia FM has started an all-out war with Tesco in a bid to support traders in the town.
Andrew Fowler, who runs the radio station, has been handing out anti-Tesco leaflets and has pledged that Roysia FM will not take advertising from the supermarket giant.
He said: “In this area where there is a big Tesco, people are not coming into town any more and car parking prices have risen, which just spells trouble.
“Royston was once a thriving town, but it has gone downhill. In the US, small towns have been devastated by Walmart and this is the effect Tesco is having in the UK.”
The Shepreth-based radio station, which broadcasts online, is backing Royston traders in their fight to compete with the supermarket’s new £5m extension on its Extra branch at Old North Road.
Mr Fowler said: “I am hopeful that it will get back on its feet and at Roysia FM we are working with town centre traders to find out what we can do to help.
“We still have two free advertising slots available to rivals of Tesco in Royston.”
He understands the commercial pressures the local media faces over carrying Tesco’s advertising.
“This radio station does not run on thin air and we are funded by paid advertisements,” he said.
“Having been supported by traders throughout Royston, I would be hesitant to take advertising from Tesco, but the final decision would have to be taken by the board of Roysia FM.”
Cllr Rob Inwood (Lib Dem, Palace) backed the campaign and said that Royston residents should show their support for the High Street during the Christmas period.
He fears that Tesco is taking advantage of its strong position by putting up its ‘Extra’ sign without planning permission, for which it has applied retrospectively.
“They have not yet put in the pedestrian crossing which they were required to as part of an S106 order [planning gain agreement] when planning permission for the extension was granted,” he said.
A Tesco spokesman said: “We’ve applied for permission for the sign and will comply with the district council’s decision.
“Tesco are also happy to stand by our S106 commitment. However, we’re working with both the district and county councils to iron out some technical issues with the footpath improvements. If we’re unable to proceed we’ll work with the authorities to find an alternative use for the money.”
