More than 200 people object to supermarket plan
A decision is due over plans for a Tesco Express store to replace shop units, including a bakery.
A proposal to replace a row of shops with a Tesco supermarket has drawn objections from over 200 individuals. A petition has been launched to prevent the closure of the existing businesses, which include a bakery.
LCP Property Investments, based in the West Midlands, stated that establishing a Tesco Express at Lakes Parade in Hawcoat, Barrow, would "generate additional employment opportunities for local people." This comes after four businesses received eviction notices in 2025, following the submission of plans to construct the supermarket on the site of six current units.
In 209 signed letters sent to Westmorland and Furness Council, residents expressed that the application "threatens to remove an accessible, valued and sustainable cluster of community-serving businesses." The affected shops, located opposite Furness General Hospital, had previously been given a December 19 deadline to vacate. These businesses are Flair Hair Fashions salon, Grange Bakery, Lakes Parade Laundry, and Dave New Tours. The local post office, however, is not slated for closure under these plans, which also incorporate parking.
Residents' signed letters also voiced concerns about increased parking strain and argued that the proposal was "out of keeping with the existing character of Hawcoat." Among other comments submitted to the Liberal Democrat-led council, one resident asserted that the application would "destroy a number of locally run small, essential businesses" that served as a "lifeline" to Hawcoat.
Conversely, one resident wrote in support, stating they were "completely in favour of the demolition of the run-down shops and replacing it with a national retailer that will offer fantastic services, competitive prices, open until late and create lots of jobs." Another individual believed the plans "looked really good" and would address "an eyesore." They added, "We have to travel a large distance to get to a Tesco or Asda... this will help the older community."
LCP Property Investments indicated that, as the application process is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment publicly on the proposals. In supporting documents for the plans, which are still awaiting approval, the developers previously stated that the redevelopment would bring "long-term improvements to neighbourhood schemes" and create local jobs. Council officers are expected to make a decision on the plans at a later date.