LOCAL traders are correct (Oxford Mail, November 2) 2010) that a new supermarket in Oxford’s Cowley Road is both unnecessary and would be damaging to the many small businesses which add to the area’s character and diversity.

Successive governments and the city council have done little to protect, in particular, small retail businesses from the unwelcome expansion of multi-nationals who are more interested in profit than community.

Local Green councillors, with the support of local landlords, traders and residents, have managed to see off numerous previous attempts to locate new chain stores in Cowley Road and helped organisations such as the Ethical Property Company and the East Oxford Farmers’ Market to establish themselves, as well as supporting and encouraging local businesses to remain in the area.

Traffic-calming measures, and improvements to the facilities for cyclists and pedestrians have also added to the attractions of shopping in the area.

Sadly, while national and local policies stay as they are, it will remain a constant battle to oppose each new adverse planning application.

CRAIG SIMMONS,(Former Green Party councillor), Magdalen Road, Oxford