Frustrated residents took to the streets of Peacehaven today (September 27), demanding Morrisons take action on long-delayed plans for a new town centre supermarket.
More than 100 people gathered outside the Meridian Centre at 10am alongside Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven MP Chris Ward and members of Peacehaven Town Council. The protest quickly turned into a march, with campaigners chanting: “What do we want? A supermarket! When do we want it? Now!” as they made their way down Roderick Avenue to South Coast Road, before finishing at the car park near the roundabout.
The demonstration comes after months of growing anger in the town, where the former Co-op supermarket closed in February, leaving Peacehaven without a major food store. Shoppers have since been forced to travel to Newhaven or Brighton, journeys made more difficult by limited public transport links.
Chris Ward, speaking to the crowd, accused Morrisons of offering “warm words” and “more excuses” instead of breaking ground. He said:
“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 first secured planning permission for the redevelopment of the Meridian Centre several years ago. The project was meant to include a new supermarket and town centre facilities. But progress has stalled, with the company citing rising construction costs and shifts in retail demand.
In October 2024, the supermarket told Sussex News it was working on a “revised proposal” that would be financially viable and better suited to Peacehaven’s needs. However, since then, no tangible progress has been made.
Campaigners say today’s protest is just the start of a renewed push to hold Morrisons accountable. One resident at the march said: “We’ve been left high and dry for too long. Peacehaven needs a supermarket – it’s not a luxury, it’s essential.”
The MP confirmed he will continue pressing Morrisons for firm commitments but warned the community cannot wait indefinitely.
Add your first comment to this post