Dec 2012
Dear Editor, we have read with interest numerous letters in the Cornish Times expressing concerns over the location of the proposed Tesco store in Looe and that we need to make sure we get the right site and the best deal.
Getting the best deal for Looe is a complex matter and worries over traffic congestion or impact on town centre viability need to be considered of course, but is it time to question whether having a Tesco or an Asda on a highly prominent hilltop might be another step towards eroding Looe's attractiveness longterm? Already we have 100 new houses being built on the neighbouring hillside in full view of visitors entering Looe and if this process continues we risk losing our greatest asset.
Looe is rich in character and the charm of its buildings and coastal setting is something we have been lucky enough to inherit for free. It contributes to what is good about living here and draws people to want visit, but are we suffering a case of 'familiarity breeds contempt', and is our inheritance something we are maybe taking for granted?
Safeguarding the identity of our surroundings is not just good for tourism but good for the well-being of those who live here. If we want the convenience of supermarket shopping on our doorstep then why can't we find a better location that is a little bit hidden away and designed in a manner that is a little more in keeping with local character?
