Residents say ‘I’m not being a snob’ as plan for new Greggs annoys city village
It’s the uber-cool city neighbourhood known for its love of chic cafes and independent traders. So news that bakery giant Greggs could be opening in Moseley[1] has gone down worse than a stale steak bake in some quarters. The company, which has around 2,300 branches across the country, has lodged an application to occupy part of a former Sainsbury’s[2] building in Alcester Road.
And the news left some residents with a lot to chew on as they reacted on a Facebook neighbourhood page. One said: “No-one needs yet another ubiquitous high street chain. I’m not being a snob – I love Greggs donuts so much it hurts – but this is just another example of the mundane globalisation of what should be a unique neighbourhood.
Another said: “Sounds good.
However, big or small we have way too many coffee places already.” While one person posted: “Keep Moseley independent!!!” If successful, the unit would create two full-time and 16 part-time roles. It would open from 5am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and from 5am to 6pm on Sunday.
Bake off ovens, ventilation and a ‘projecting sign’ would be installed but the application did not state if there would be a seating area. Moseley, alongside Harborne[4], Kings Heath[5] and Stirchley[6], is well-known for its thriving independent restaurant and cafe scene. If passed, Greggs would be literally steps away from a range of established coffee shops including boulangerie and patisserie Maison Mayci, Cafephilia, Java Roastery, Damascena, Demaines of Moseley, Sorrento Lounge, La Brioche, Amore Pizzeria and Caffetteria and more.
Coun Izzy Knowles said: “I’ve not had official confirmation that a Greggs is opening but if they are, I look forward to working with them to involve them in the community.”
The heart of Moseley village (Image: Graham Young / BirminghamLive)
And there was plenty of support for the proposal on the Facebook page. One said: “Yes! I was hoping for a gym too!
The space is large enough.” Another said: “Anyone who does open a new business has my utmost admiration and respect.
“At the end of the day though it all comes down to money… landlords don’t want units empty and I suppose they won’t risk renting out space to a new business or brand.” A spokeswoman from the chain of bakers said: “Greggs is always looking into new shop locations, while we are unable to confirm anything at the moment, we will be sure to share any information in due course.”
References
- ^ Moseley (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
- ^ Sainsbury’s (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
- ^