THE Scotch Corner retail development may well bring jobs and revenue to Richmondshire, as Angus Thompson argues (D&S Times, Dec 30), but people will not, magically, have more money to spend. Jobs will be lost in neighbouring high streets.
People on long journeys will not stop at Scotch Corner for retail therapy at a characterless retail park.
It is not very “green” to encourage shoppers to forsake their local high street and drive to Scotch Corner.
Angus admits that shops in Darlington are struggling.
The money should be invested in improving the retail environment where people live so that they don’t need to drive for miles to shop.
Living near Northallerton, I am fortunate that I can buy everything that I need in the town.
Miles Garnett, South Otterington
YOUR correspondents in support of the Scotch Corner retail development seem to be away with the blue sky dreamers.
They seem to be crossing their fingers and hoping for the best – not usually a wise feeling! The reality is somewhat different. The UK is facing very straitened times and people tend to concentrate on the basics and ignore luxury aspects of life.
Further, out of town shopping centres have closed before and this has to be considered as a severe limiting factor. Also people passing Scotch Corner tend not to stop due to the pressure of road traffic, and they are anxious to complete their journeys as soon as possible.
Overall, this 90 shop development could be the biggest white elephant that we have seen for some time.
William Robotham, Barton
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