The redevelopment of Sutton’s Times Square has been well-awaited, but the unveiling of the new Poundworld has caused some confusion among the public. Being within metres of an existing Poundland and up the high street from another Poundland, people are questioning the necessity of the new shop.
A woman that I spoke to outside the new Poundworld said: “I just don’t understand the need for it; there’s a poundland right over there. Do they think this will get more people to come to Sutton? It’s just stupid.”
Another person said: “It’s such a wasted opportunity to improve the high street. Sutton’s reputation already isn’t great, and now we have 3 pound shops along one road. With this new space they could have brought in some really nice shops.”
Even when walking past the new Poundworld I could hear multiple people expressing their confusion and disappointment, seeing that the shiny new store will be used for something that is already provided. It definitely seems the the general opinion of this new installment is highly negative. Personally, I think that Sutton would have benefitted more from a different business, and the large amount of space within the shop seems excessive for a pound shop.
Another issue that has been raised is the decline in business for the existing Poundland chains. With a shiny, new, attractive storefront and its spacious aisles, the new Poundworld will definitely entice plenty of customers. Whether the old shops will be maintain their business will become a significant problem. Although the redevelopment of Times Square will bring many new job opportunities for the unemployed in Sutton, it may lead to redundancy in other businesses.
The time of this Poundworld reveal is quite fitting seeing as the new pound coin will enter circulation on Tuesday the 28th of March- At least people will be able to use a fancy new coin for their fancy new pound shop.
Caitlin Charles, St. Philomena's High School
