If Tesco Dean Street closes, what’s left for Soho’s Residents and Workers?

Whenever I mention that I live in Soho, one of the first questions often asked is, “Where do you buy your groceries?!” The concept of having an affordable place to shop in London’s vibrant social district should not be a rarity. This is where my local Tesco on Dean Street plays a crucial role. It offers affordable, value products at prices lower than many of its competitors. However, the news of its imminent closure, with no potential replacement, has left me pondering the future for Soho residents, workers, and visitors. “What’s will be left for us?”

If Tesco Dean Street were to close its doors, a significant void would be left in Soho for its residents and workers. Currently, Tesco Dean Street serves as a convenient shopping destination, offering a wide range of products and essentials to meet the needs of the local community. From groceries and household items to grab-and-go meals, the store has become an integral part of the daily routine for many in the area.

For residents, the closure of Tesco Dean Street would mean having to find alternative options for their shopping needs. While there are other grocery stores and markets nearby, Tesco Dean Street has established itself as a reliable, affordable and familiar choice. Its closure could disrupt the shopping patterns of Soho’s residents, particularly those who have grown accustomed to its convenient location and wide selection of goods. Many residents would also rely on online shopping, which though convenient, doesn’t help with the heavy traffic already disruptive to Soho’s narrow streets.

The impact would extend beyond just residents. Workers in the area, including office employees, hospitality staff, and freelancers often rely on Tesco Dean Street for quick and convenient meals during their busy schedules. The store’s closure would potentially leave them with limited options for affordable and accessible food during their lunch breaks or after work.

Soho needs its Supermarket – say no to the redevelopment of the Tesco Site in Dean Street

The developer of the Tesco Site on Dean Street, Hines, has proposed a redevelopment plan that could potentially result in the demolition of Soho’s primary supermarket, without a suitable replacement. The Soho Society has launched a campaign to appeal to the developer, urging them to reconsider their plans and ensure that any future development of the site includes a supermarket of equal size to the current one.

The demolition of Tesco Dean Street would also mean the loss of a magnificent art-deco façade at 7 Soho Square. This raises concerns about the potential loss of another cherished heritage site in pursuit of modern office spaces, which would come at the expense of Soho’s rich cultural heritage.

Est. 2003

I actually remember when Tesco Metro opened in Soho in 2003. It was the same year I moved into Soho that autumn. Prior to Tesco’s arrival, my preferred grocery shopping destination was the local Sainsbury’s on Charing Cross Road, just steps from the world-famous London Astoria, both of which have unfortunately disappeared since then. At the time, Sainsbury’s seemed rather upscale for a girl in her late teens on a tight budget. However, it was their quality and affordable own-brand products that kept me coming back, which is precisely what I discovered at Tesco. While Tesco may not be a boutique, family-run establishment, they are undeniably the only option in the vicinity that offers the best value deals. I couldn’t imagine relying solely on Co-op (Berwick Street, Soho) or Whole Foods (Glasshouse Street, Soho) for my weekly shop which would, of course, leave a huge dent in my pocket.

There is no denying that the presence of a local Tesco has greatly contributed to the sense of independence felt by my elderly and less-abled neighbors. I’ve often observed them confidently pushing their shopping trolleys up the streets of Soho. A stroll to the supermarket is also their form of exercise, a social route (this is when you reaslise Soho really is a village – when you can’t go a few doors down without stopping for a natter!), or simply to get some fresh air. It is evident that Tesco has become an integral part of the community, as the staff members have established personal relationships with the customers, knowing them by name. It is a testament to the strong bond formed between the store and the local residents.

Tesco Dean Street Supports Community

In addition to other community and diversity initiatives, Tesco Dean Street has sponsored the My Soho Times Christmas Senior Citizens Chritmas gift initiative for two consecutive years. This project provides Christmas essentials to senior and less abled Soho residents..

Tesco partners with Olio: Surplus food from Tesco stores, both locally and across the UK, is listed on the food sharing app and distributed through the OLIO Food Waste Heroes, in an effort to reduce waste and help those in need. In addition to this partnership, Tesco also offers discounted products towards the end of the day, providing customers with an opportunity to purchase these items at reduced prices.

So, my question still lingers; if Tesco Dean Street closes, what will be left for those who live, work, play in Soho?

Save our local Tesco Dean Street from redevelopment. Show you support by signing The Soho Society‘s petition here.

Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl | Images: Kai Lutterodt / My Soho Times

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