Please help local businesses and resident of Pangbourne to encourage new trade and healthy competition by signing this petition!

Pangbourne, which has a population of under 3,000, already has three independent coffee shops (two directly opposite 8 Reading Road!), not to mention the numerous pubs and restaurants that serve casual diners, and the fourth coffee outlet at the train station, which doesn't really count. The village has allegedly suffered with the impact of the Whitchurch Bridge closure, though this depends on who you talk to.

Pangbourne is a thriving large village, the arrival of Costa Coffee will most likely bring in more visitors, who will likely also pop to other shops for a bit of.... shopping. Existing cafes will just have to focus on delivering great service and products, instead of worrying about new competition. They will be fine, if they do this, people love choice!

If a Costa opens then people can exercise that choice, by using it.....If they want to. If they don't, then don't, it's not complex.

This could be seen as another small step in taking down more independent traders, and leaving the landscape of Pangbourne a far cry what it used to be...but that's disingenuous. Pangbourne is always changing, and relies on a balance of chains and independent business for its character.

Please help us to ensure Pangbourne does not become another failed high street statistic, by saying YES to free trade and choice. So, say YES to Costa Coffee, if you want to, or don't, it really won't make a difference!