A row of shops on Lakes Parade in Hawcoat, Barrow, faces potential closure following plans to replace six units with a Tesco Express supermarket. Four businesses were issued eviction notices over the summer, including Flair Hair Fashions, Grange Bakery, Lakes Parade Laundry and Dave New Tours.
West Midlands-based LCP Property Investments, which submitted the plans, said the development would “generate additional employment opportunities for local people” and provide “long-term improvements to neighbourhood schemes.” Two of the units are currently vacant, while the others are nearing the end of their leases. The developers added that they were unlikely to find new tenants for individual units if the redevelopment does not proceed.
Daniel Cooper, owner of the neighbouring Lakes Parade convenience store, which is not affected by the plans, expressed concern about the impact on the community. “Businesses are still wanted here and they want to be here,” he said. “A lot of people we speak to don’t want a big national chain here, we would rather have shops that are supporting people locally. You’re talking about people’s livelihoods and people’s jobs here and that should be at the forefront, not money, greed.”
The proposed supermarket has drawn opposition from the local community. Westmorland and Furness Council is consulting on the plans, with more than 1,500 people signing a petition against the redevelopment. Labour MP for Barrow, Michelle Scrogham, criticised the proposals, stating they would “ruin the entire character of a suburb.” She has invited residents and business owners to a community meeting to discuss the future of Lakes Parade.
While some local shops will remain, including Mr Cooper’s store and the post office, affected tenants are set to receive compensation in accordance with legislation. A spokesperson for LCP Property Investments said: “We recognise the important role local businesses play in the community. At the same time, we believe in investing in long-term improvements to neighbourhood schemes. This redevelopment will create a contemporary retail environment and generate additional employment opportunities for local people, delivering benefits for residents and the wider community for years to come.”
The debate highlights tensions between supporting small local businesses and introducing large national retailers. Advocates for the redevelopment point to new jobs and modernised facilities, while opponents emphasise the potential loss of livelihoods and the character of the area. The consultation process will determine whether the supermarket plans move forward or whether Lakes Parade retains its current mix of independent businesses.
