Sainsbury’s propose to build a new 35,000 sq ft superstore in the centre of our peaceful market town. With this will come the demolition of a brand new youth centre that is key to young people. Two new supermarkets is enough; sign the petition and help us put a stop to this madness.
We’re here to stand up to Sainsbury’s insensitive proposals and save Dorking’s new youth centre. Sainsbury’s previous handling of their last two attempts to build on St Martin’s Walk was disastrous: if they’re given permission, can we trust them to replace the youth centre they want to demolish with one of a standard young people will be satisfied with?
Why say no?
- Vulnerable young people will depend upon The Malthouse youth centre: youth workers support them through their education and troubled times and are a vital part in their lives.
- The Malthouse is in an ideal location, close to both The Ashcombe and The Priory, Dorking’s two main secondary schools, and next to Meadowbank recreation ground.
- A new Sainsbury’s would increase traffic in the town centre, especially near to the park and on key school routes, putting young people at risk from hazardous driving.
- We doubt that Sainsbury’s will be able to replace The Malthouse with a youth centre facility of equal standard in terms of its location.
- Sainsbury’s current proposals are vague, and do not provide information on where they will consider relocating the Centre to so, preventing the public from reaching a conclusion on if their proposals are or are not in the interests of young people.
