THERE are at least eight reasons why we should say "yes" to the proposed Safeway supermarket development in Great Harwood.

1. It will be good for the township - it will strengthen the local economy and create 180 new jobs, plus 200 local jobs during construction.

2. It will provide improved shopping choice and facilities.

3. It would help stop the exodus of shoppers to neighbouring towns.

4. It will keep trade in the town to the benefit of other retailers and businesses.

5. New shoppers would use the town, bringing major benefits to other shops and businesses.

6. It will provide more competitive prices which will bring cheaper commodities to people on their doorstep.

7. New retailers will be encouraged to invest in the town.

8. Car parking provision will be greatly improved.

I suggest the development will provide the boost that Great Harwood is crying out for - with a project of such magnitude there will be major investment in the town's infrastructure.

Improved modern facilities such as a new library, improved children's playground, new unit for the school library service and enhanced nursery and childcare provision will all be provided.

Also, major landscaping and environmental projects will take place adjacent to the store turning areas of derelict wasteland into an attractive public amenity. At Plough Yard, an existing business will be relocated next door, so retaining local jobs and making another environmental improvement and, hopefully, this project will act as a magnet for future development.

At the recent Safeway exhibition, results of a customer survey showed that 97 per cent of people in Great Harwood are in favour of the plans.

Don't let opponents Philip Congdon, Councillor Adrian Shurmer and local Conservatives put this development and investment at risk.

I call on the people of Great Harwood to continue to make their views absolutely clear on this development.

A new store could kick-start the much-needed process of regeneration in Great Harwood. I believe the alternative is more empty shops. Please keep your letters of support coming in to the local authority.

I ask all members of the council: let us have the vision to see the potential benefits of this project for the future of Great Harwood.

COUNTY COUNCILLOR GEORGE SLYNN, Haydock Square, Great Harwood.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.