Chain store disrupted by TWISTER

Cambridge No Chains | 25.06.2006 11:22 | Globalisation | Cambridge

20 local residents took over a Cambridge Pizza Hut on Friday evening with a "No Chains" party with music, dancing, balloons and playing twister to protest against the encroachment of multinationals into Mill Road, a vibrant, multicultural community. The protest party lasted over half an hour until the games were interupted by police who dispersed the crowd.

Mill road is the centre of a thriving and diverse community, and has managed to remain so whilst the city centre is becoming indistinguishable from any other town. Now, Mill Road's unique character and independent businesses are under threat with the arrival of Multinational Chains such as Subway, Pizza Hut and Chicken Cottage.

This No Chains party was part of an on-going campaign to prevent Mill road becoming another identikit street in an identikit world.

Local resident Jane, 23, said "I've always loved Mill Road because of its individuality. I'd hate to see it become the same as every other street."

Another resident, Alan, 46, said "I've lived here 22 years and I'm really worried that local businesses are being driven out by these places."

Notes

Previous actions included on May 6th a "making life taste better" day of action where free home made food was given away on Mill Road outside the chain stores and an open letter condemning the encroachment of chain stores on Mill Road recieved hundreds of signitures.

Photos to follow

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