My name is Michael Hollings, and I have been the proud business owner of Quickstep in Princes Risborough since 2008, committed to serving our community and supporting the local economy. Since 1996, I have dedicated my life to the business, raising my family right here in the heart of this charming town.

Today, I am asking Buckinghamshire Council to reject the proposed Timpson kiosk planned for the Tesco car park in Princes Risborough.

This is not about being against Timpson as a company. They are a large national chain with more than 1,300 locations across the UK and clearly provide a valued service. My concern is whether a supermarket car park in a small market town is the right place for another business offering the same service as existing independent traders already serving the community.

Princes Risborough has worked hard to maintain a thriving high street filled with independent businesses that give the town its character and identity. Like many small towns across the country, we are already facing the challenges of rising costs, online competition and declining footfall. Shifting more services away from the high street and into supermarket car parks risks weakening our town centre even further.

There are also practical concerns. Tesco’s car park is already extremely busy at peak times, particularly at weekends, and additional commercial units are likely to increase congestion and reduce convenience for shoppers and residents.

Many local people are also worried about what this could lead to in the future. Once standalone kiosks begin appearing in supermarket car parks, it becomes easier for more commercial units to follow. Over time, this gradually changes the character of the area and pulls activity away from the high street that local businesses depend on.

National planning policy places strong importance on supporting vibrant town centres and protecting local character. Princes Risborough is a market town on the edge of the Chilterns, and many residents feel this proposal does not reflect the scale, character or long-term interests of our community.

I respectfully ask Buckinghamshire Council to refuse this application, or if officers are minded to approve it, to refer the decision to the Planning Committee so elected councillors can fully consider the wider impact on our town.

Please support local independent businesses and help protect the future character of Princes Risborough by signing this petition.