Sir, Although I'm in total agreement with Shân L. Owens (Observer, July 30) as regards the New Hedges development, no matter how much we campaign, I suspect this will get the go ahead, because the developers have put enough incentives in the plans. In this day and age we have become a society of slothful shoppers and we want things in one place and cheap all at the same time. People like shopping in one area, be it supermarkets, shopping malls or shopping estates. Just look at the outskirts of Haverfordwest, Carmarthen and Pembroke Dock. The vast majority of 'big name' stores who have set up in these towns are on the fringes, therefore assuming everything you need from your shopping trip is in these areas. What reason have you for going into the town centres? Despite the fact there are several good shops in all these towns, you would only venture there if it was really necessary. And who says big is supposed to be better or cheaper. They have the buying power to price the 'independent' small guy out of the market, but I have seen some goods cheaper in the smaller independent stores than the big supermarkets. While we all love cheap food and convenience shopping, this project may provide both, as well as jobs, but I disagree with Mr. Griffiths, of Saundersfoot (Observer, August 6). If they do their job right, there may be no competition for this new store and more unemployed people than when the store started. Most stores currently pay below the soon to be new national minimum wage. I would like to know what Mr. Griffiths calls in monetary terms a better paid job. This seems to be the rate in this county, regardless of whom you work for; even multi-nationals pay the NMW. I must also disagree with Mr. Briers (Observer, August 6). No one is going to do their shopping and swan off to Tenby or Saundersfoot for a saunter and a meal; it's not practical. Also, most stores have in-house cafe/restaurants, which is convenience shopping at its best, no need to go anywhere else, but here. This is what 'we' have asked for. If this is called progress, who are we to argue with the planners. Finally, I wish Mr. F. Booth and the other businessmen good luck in their campaign.

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