Success In Somerset

After 11 months where legal and direct action campaigners worked hand in hand, and after plans had been signed and sealed by Sainsburys and the district council, the consumer giants pulled out before the bulldozers arrived. Various parties have given various reasons for the pull-out, but everyone knows that without the campaign, the scheme would already be underway.

The last straw for Sinsberry was a month long occupation by EF! and the eco-tribes of an abandoned Tesco store a stone's throw from Wyndham Hill where the superstore was to be built. This was followed by a 3 week occupation of a warehouse/bat roost, threatened by the scheme, coupled with court action against Council misrepresentation by the Wyndham Action Group & huge local support for the action of the campaigners.

11 months ago activists decided not to wait for the bulldozers to come in on the hill, but to get involved immediately, starting off low-key, forging links and gradually working up to direct action as the legal channels receded.

As well as gaining us respect, many new friends and a firm base for future actions, this strategy brought victory. On Wyndham Hill and down the riverside walk the Greenshoots and Blossoms of Spring emerge and it is a beautiful site indeed. Eternal thanks to all those who fought with us.

Stop Press ALDI may be interested in the site - the campaign may not be over - any info on them gratefully received. (South Somerset EF!)