Sir,

I write in support of Mr. Lee White's comments in your paper of February 26. Narberth's wide appeal is based entirely on its independent businesses. The incursion of bland, national supermarkets will reduce the appeal of our town.

I travel extensively throughout the West Wales area and often further afield. Every business person I meet knows and admires Narberth for its independence and wide choice of stores to shop in. Many towns would like to emulate Narberth, but, sadly, it is already too late for them as the big boys are already present.

I am interested to know what criteria the planning office are using to approve the Co-op's application. What is the catchment area? What is the council's opinion of the impact on existing business that the Co-op will have? Have they considered that one or more local businesses will have to close if the application is approved?

Is it true that the Eastgate garage site has been sold to Tesco?

Why isn't the council keeping the residents and businesses of Narberth fully informed as to how they plan to change Narberth's trading landscape, including what its plans are for the old school site? Why is this such a big secret?

To look at how big business can destroy a once vibrant small town, we only have to look at Cardigan. Tesco have been there for over 10 years and now the town is on its knees. I appreciate that there are other considerations here, like the closure of Woolworths, but, it all started with Tesco. Furthermore, Sainsbury's are coming to Cardigan soon, so watch that space. I predict more independent casualties, making Cardigan into a 'ghost' town.

Recently, Newcastle Emlyn has come under pressure in the same way as Narberth, with plans for two new supermarkets in the town. Traders there have the same worries that Narberth has. The Chamber of Trade there is having a hard time fighting the planning application, but, they are not taking things lying down. They are fighting hard to retain the local, independent flavour, and Narberth should too.

The people of Narberth should wake up to the threat we face from big business and stand their ground! I often see delivery vans from Asda and Tesco etc in the local area and, far from demanding that people shop locally and nowhere else, I would issue a challenge. Do your shopping for one week in Narberth and compare against your supermarket receipts. I don't believe you will lose out and the community will gain from your business. There are plenty of good deals to be had in the local shops, you just have to go into town and have a look.

The one thing that this town really needs desperately is another 500 parking spaces for residents and visitors to use. This will help to keep the High Street clear of those people who either cannot, or refuse to park considerately.

Those of us who wish to add the 'green' issue to the situation should be asking questions about carbon footprints and food miles etc. Local produce sold in local shops will always beat anything that supermarkets can supply.

This is fast becoming a national issue as more and more small towns become swallowed up by big business. Where is the National Assembly when we need it?

Finally, if anyone wishes to support the town in this issue, please contact the local Chamber of Trade who will be delighted to assist you in making your feelings known to the right people at Pembrokeshire Council.

Rob Traylor,

Narberth.

FOOTNOTE: When we contacted Narberth's county council member, Clr. Wynne Evans, about the Tesco claim, he said: "A well-known supermarket chain had their property agents in town two weeks ago looking at a property for a possible express style store. As a matter of courtesy, I'm always informed well in advance of such interests and visits."