Impact of large foodstores on market towns and district centres

Market towns have historically been the social and trading focal point for rural England. Their legacy of ancient streets and buildings is a fundamental part of our national heritage. However, as some of their traditional functions are gradually being eroded, there is a genuine concern about their future viability. In particular, there is widespread concern about the effects of large foodstores, particularly in non-central locations, on the economic health of market towns.

District centres generally lack the historical associations of market towns, and often have a less clearly defined and established role. However, they also perform an important shopping and community function. A number of the challenges facing market towns, and in particular the growth of large foodstores, are also relevant to district centres.

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of large foodstore development on market towns and district centres. Previous research has failed to address comprehensively the particular concerns facing these centres. This study attempts to address this deficiency.

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