Most town centres are clones - the same chain stores with same fascias in a slightly different order.
However, Brighton has a unique gem in the North Laine and The Lanes. They're something different and a real draw to tourists and locals.
This is why I am saddened to hear that not only is chain store cafe Starbucks moving into the Jubilee development but now Tesco Express is taking another step towards world domination and also hopes to move in.
I feel sorry for the North Laine traders who have rejuvenated the area over the years. I suppose that is the downside of retail success - popularity shoves the original traders out. How sad.
-Mrs AL Curtis, Portslade
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