Keep Chorlton Interesting is a campaign/pressure group aiming to do just what our name says - to keep our area of South Manchester interesting and unique, with a diverse range of vibrant, locally owned, small shops and businesses. Chorlton is justifiably proud of its fantastic independent shopping provision, which contributes much to its unique character and sustainability, and we're determined to see it stay that way. The group also aims to increase the influence of the community as a whole on the planning process, a system that shapes our communities and yet is often pretty inaccessible to most.

The group has around 12 active members (please note - only two represent Chorlton businesses, the majority are simply residents), but our work on the Tesco campaign has involved several hundred local residents, shoppers and workers in the area who share our aim to Keep Chorlton Interesting.

The group has worked alongside the Chorlton Civic Society, with which it shares several similar concerns, but operates with a more specific focus on retail developments in the area.

Keep Chorlton Interesting is working on several specific local campaigns/issues. Although our initial campaign was fighting theTesco planning application for 84 Manchester Road, we are not specifically an anti-Tesco group, but, like Tescopoly itself, we are "concerned about the market-distorting power of all the major supermarkets" and their impacts on our society, environment and economy. Here are details of the campaigns we are working on:

1. No Tesco at 84 Manchester Road

Our original campaign, but sadly in August, after a hard and well-fought campaign by KCI, the Planning Inspector still found in favour of Tesco.
More information about the 84 Manchester Road campaign

2. Chorlton Precinct redevelopment

The next step on from our initial Tesco campaign; Chorlton's shopping precinct is up for large-scale redevelopment. Built in the 1970's, it has seen better days, and would definitely benefit from some care and attention. A large supermarket and a whole host of clone town chain stores are on the cards, threatening Chorlton's independent traders - we are calling for a different and more sustainable future for the precinct.
More information about the Chorlton Precinct redevelopment

3. Stretford Tesco

Having had an application rejected at national level already, Tesco still has its eye on a large store in Stretford, and has entered into a partnership with Ask Developments, Lancashire County Cricket Club and Trafford Borough Council . As a Chorlton-based group we don't feel we can get too involved in this, but a major new supermarket so close by could have serious implications for shops in our area.
More information about the Stretford Tesco development