As someone who did sign the petition, with some reservations, I should say that Stefan's general arguments are what persuaded me.

I don't honestly believe that the KEY objection is the potential for harm from alcohol (I say that as someone who works in the drinks trade), but it will be a factor, and it is, so far, the main route open to residents to express an opinion and to encourage debate within the community, in the council, and at Morrisons (who may note these discussions to gauge local opinion).

I have nothing against Morrisons as a brand. I would encourage shopping alternatives in this Sainsbury's dominated area (I like Waitrose, I admit it, but Ocado already deliver, I don't need it to open locally). If they proposed taking over the local Sainsburys or Coop, that would be one thing, but do we really need another convenience store in addition to them? There's a lot of talk about independent shops on the London Road side of the station, but there are also more "markets" on this side - 3 within spitting distance of the station exit alone. Whatever you think of their business sense, opening more local mini-markets, the arrival of a further big brand who will HAVE to do promotions to drive habitual visitors, makes it more likely that at least these shops will close.

The Forest Hill society and SEE3 have done such a great job to kick start local independent shops to open, it is incumbent on us to protect the area (and its best locations) from predatory decisions by brands who have the money, but not the local will. I want to, and do, spend as much money on these truly local businesses as I can and would welcome more choices. In any case, the local landscape will change dramatically if/when the Capitol changes use!

I know Michael is very experienced at this, and has FH's interest at heart, so I will go with what he suggests if he believes there are other ways to ensure we do the best for the local shopping experience, but my initial reaction was, and is, that Morrisons is not right for this site and it is useful to make some noise to point this out.

Just my 2¢