02 January 2024 , 06:49
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A supermarket branch loved by the public for its contribution to the community has been officially protected by a council after it was saved from demolition last year.
The Tesco Express store on Dean Street, central London, has now formally recognised by Westminster City Council as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) following a nomination from the Soho Society - due to its role as a supermarket making an important contribution to local life. It came after a planning committee in October voted four to two to halt plans to knock down the convenience space - housed in an art Deco building - and turn it into an office space and rental unit development called the 'Soho Bazaar'.
At the time, chair Councillor Ruth Bush said to members there was "no concept" behind the submission, while locals raised doubts about the need for offices and an 'art bazaar' in place of the supermarket. Local resident David Bieda, who visits the store regularly, said: “You can’t buy your fruit and vegetables with a bit of public art.”
The Soho Society, a public body which aims to promote and protect the iconic district nominated the Tesco to become an ACV due to its contribution to the local community. The council has since described the store as offering the "best range of products and price points" in the area.
The designation of the ACV means if the supermarket space - occupied by the Tesco - goes up for sale, the community will be offered the chance to purchase it first. It will retain it's ACV status for the next five years.
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An artist's impression of the proposed 'Soho Bazaar' office block that would have replaced the Dean Street store (WWC/Orms)Following recognition from the council, the supermarket has now become the sixth ACV in the local Westminster area due to its function as a local supermarket. It joins the likes of nightclub Heaven, The Coach and Horses pub in Greek Street, Queen’s Park Hall and All Stars Boxing Gym in Harrow Road, the Curzon Cinema in Mayfair and the Prince’s Square Gardens.
Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr Geoff Barraclough, said: “Local supermarkets are staples of daily life, and it is well known that there are fewer places in Central London for grocery shopping. That is why I am pleased we can mark this supermarket in Soho as an asset to the community, acknowledging that it is serving local people by providing space for a wide range of affordable food.”