Do we really need a Costa in our Village....how will this affect the local tea and coffee shops?...Is this the beginnig of a thin wedge...what next? Macdonalds and KFC?
Natalie H. replied:
I'm hoping Costa will be a pleasant addition. Vintage Rose is lovely, but is small and can get very busy. I'm not familiar with any other tea/coffee shops in Storrington! I'm also hoping Costa will employ my two teenage sons who have both been struggling to find part time jobs in the village/close to home.
Kirsten C. replied:
Unfortunately Traditions was way too small & you weren't allowed buggies in there, they had to left outside down the side alley which I didn't feel comfortable about at all & no good when it's raining! We need bigger space to sit & chat with friends, especially if there is a large group of you. The franchise is owned by a local businessman, not someone who doesn't know the area so hopefully he'll take things into consideration. I think the latest developments are an improvement already - just look at Martin Steels optometrist - already moved across & totally updated their shop which looks fantastic now & no longer dated. Barclays & HSBC have all had re-fits & even the card shop has had a new lick of paint!! I believe there is room for newer companies alongside local, independent retailers which I always shop from anyway.
Natalie H. replied:
Natalie Steer - yes would love to! Maybe we should hold our inaugural meeting in Costa when it opens. However, it would have to be after 6 for me as I work in Brighton Mon-Fri. Anyone else interested?
Katie B. replied:
Great idea! I only moved here about 20 months ago and it would be lovely to meet up. I know a few people but always love meeting new friends. If the new Costa is closed in the evening then the White Horse is an alternative as it's quieter than The Moon. Maybe an early evening drink/coffee? Or Saturday morning would be fun. I'm happy to meet in the daytime too though, I'm flexible. Regarding business networking, Natalie I don't know of any meetings in Storrington and would be happy to start one. I run a meeitng in Worthing already but would love one closer to home. There is a book club, as my retired neighbours go to it. If you want deails I can get them for you.:)
Jayne L. replied:
Yes we can hope...but with Costa express at Tesco's and Waitrose free coffee machine within their shop...is it really going to bring new people into our village?. There are lots of empty shops because Waitrose was supposed to be expanding....now that isn't going to happen...do we just fill the village with mainstream retail? Storrington is a Village within a great setting...how come we can't encourage some independent shops to our village...make it a Village WORTH visiting...and get some public toilets for a start!