Would love a marks and Spencer’s food hall! It would bring so many people in from local areas. I have to go on the bus to the Dulwich one and invariably shop in the adjacent stores. People would walk in from Kirkdale etc, bringing foot traffic past the shops on Dartmouth Road.
There seems to be a concerted effort to gentrify Forest Hill which is all well and good for those with a gentrified income. But what about the working classes and the small business owners? Costa will wipe them out and we couldn’t have a Morrisons but M&S or Waitrose is ok?
Our nearest premium supermarkets are far, far away.
It’s understandable to me that people would want Forest Hill to serve the economically diverse demographics that live here - which now includes wealthier people as well as working class people.
I just want another supermarket to make the London Road Sainsbury’s to up its game.
Of the supermarkets that offer good ingredients (rather than a range of ready meals) , I’d prefer either a Waitrose or a Lidl, either of which I’d feel would be an upgrade.
We’re getting a bit off topic here, because the site is being split into two smaller units so a supermarket isn’t an option.
I suspect there are just as many people who wouldn’t be seen dead in a ‘hipster’ coffee shop as there are those of us who wouldn’t drink in a Costa. I think (hope) FH can sustain both and thrive in the process.
Very true - and few of the supermarkets are looking for sites right now - even if this one was the right size.
So - we’ve got lovely coffee shops, delis, gift shops, pubs & shops with interesting beer - not to mention some of our specialist shops for cards, sweets etc.
I’d love a Meatliquor (although ED is not that far) or a Middle Eastern place with the option to get a takeaway when you come off a late train. I know the new Lazy Chef has some grilled kebabs but not sure how late it’s open or if they do takeout. A BBQ joint might also do a good trade? It seems easier to think of restaurants.
I’m struggling to think of a shop that I’d use much that might be able to generate the income required to meet the suggested rent. I’m not sure whether M & Co’s decision to close was based only on low takings or a rent hike or a poor assortment. Would something like East Dulwich’s Sugar work in there?
We have another thread on the same topic, so I’m going to close this one and we can add further replies to the thread below (I’ve added Home Accessories to the Title to make it clearer).