Action Briefing June 2004 - July 2004
	The Newsletter of Birmingham Friends of the Earth

Using the planning system to challenge supermarket dominance

Friends of the Earth are holding a training day entitled 'Using the planning system to challenge supermarket dominance' on Saturday 19th June 2004 at the Birmingham Voluntary Services Council (BVSC) premises, 138 Digbeth, 11.00am-4.45pm.

Effective use of the planning system will be a very important element in delivering Friends of the Earth's vision for a sustainable future for retailing, one less dominated by global corporations like Tesco and Walmart, and where local food sourcing, strong local economies and accessible local shops have a chance to thrive.

The planning system is at present undergoing a major shake-up, raising problems and opportunities which local campaigners need to be aware of. Retail planning policy is being updated right now and the new planning policy statement (PPS6) will come into force this summer. Key precedents will be set as local planning authorities start to make decisions on their interpretation of the new policies. Friends of the Earth is particularly concerned about how the big supermarkets will interpret the draft policy so as to justify new large stores on the edge of market towns.

However, the new planning system and draft retail policy statement does provide new ways for local people to get involved in mapping out the future of retail development in their areas.

The training day will be a mixture of speakers and small group sessions; ideal for both those who wish to find out more about running a campaign against a new supermarket development, as well as those who want an update on policy issues and to learn how to influence future retail policy in their areas. There'll also be opportunities to share skills and knowledge of how to effectively resist proposals for new supermarket developments.

The event is free of charge. If you would like to attend, please contact me as soon as possible on 0113 2428153 or email lizw@foe.co.uk.

Liz Wright