More than 100 residents of Peacehaven took to the streets on September 27 to demand that Morrisons finally deliver the long-promised supermarket in the town centre. The protest began at 10am outside the Meridian Centre, with support from Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven MP Chris Ward and local town councillors.
The peaceful rally soon turned into a lively march, winding down Roderick Avenue to South Coast Road and ending near the roundabout car park. Protesters chanted, “What do we want? A supermarket! When do we want it? Now!” Their frustration was clear as they voiced their demands.
The protest comes after months of growing anger following the closure of the Co-op supermarket in February. With no major grocery store in Peacehaven, residents have had to travel to Newhaven or Brighton for shopping, a difficult journey made worse by unreliable public transport.
MP Chris Ward criticised Morrisons, saying, “Residents have waited years for Morrisons to deliver on their promise. It’s time for action – either build the supermarket this town desperately needs or sell the site so others can.”
Morrisons had won planning permission several years ago for the redevelopment of the Meridian Centre, which included a new supermarket and upgraded town centre facilities. However, the project has stalled due to rising construction costs and changing retail trends.
Last October, Morrisons informed Sussex News that they were working on a “revised proposal” that would be more financially viable and better suited to local needs. Since then, no significant progress has been made, increasing frustration among Peacehaven residents.
Campaigners say the protest is only the beginning of their efforts to pressure Morrisons. One marcher said, “We’ve been left high and dry for too long. Peacehaven needs a supermarket – it’s not a luxury, it’s essential.”
MP Chris Ward pledged to continue pushing Morrisons for answers but cautioned, “The community cannot wait indefinitely.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
