Regional AM Suzy Davies has vowed to get her caffeine kicks anywhere but coffee chains after planner decided to give the go-ahead to Costa setting up shop in her ward.
The international coffee chain was recently given permission to open a premises in Uplands despite almost 900 local residents signing a petition against them starting up on Uplands Crescent. Now Mrs Davies has come out against them as well.
The Welsh Conservative AM said: “Uplands has a great mix of independent retailers and business, and the Saturday market has really helped create an unique identity for the area community.
“I am surprised that in spite of almost 900 people voicing their concern locally, the chains have chosen to still come to Uplands.
“I will not be using Costa at all. There are plenty of alternatives in the area and being able to meet local people that run them and supply that special independent service is all part of the experience of shopping locally for me.”
Mrs Davies, who’s Swansea office is based in Uplands, added: “We are already seeing our town centres becoming clones of one another as the independents move out and are replaced by national chains.
I hope that our local shopping areas do not go the same way. I would instead encourage everyone to shop local and support their local traders so we can keep money in the local economy instead of giving it to these corporate giants.”
