Great Malvern (237): Opening
Waitrose Great Malvern (237) opened on 30/11/1999. The following appeared in The Gazette at the time.
“On Tuesday 30th November 1999, Great Malvern customers were able to experience the delights of their brand new store.
Located halfway up a hill, 50,000 cubic metres of earth had to be relocated to level the site which Waitrose Great Malvern is built upon.
The unique design of the building echoes the town’s distinctive Georgian and Victorian architecture. An attractive green metalwork and glass canopy covers the walkway which runs along the side of the branch. Even the delivery yard is different as it is tucked under the shop. The design blends seamlessly with its dramatic backdrop and enjoys spectacular views over the town and the Severn Valley.
With the nearest branches being over 30 miles away, Branch Manager, Tim Leader states that his priorities are to integrate the branch within the local community “that means not only offering customers the highest levels of service, but also being a good neighbour – using our influence to ensure that our new business doesn’t just benefit Waitrose but also brings opportunities to other retailers in the town.”
The store has 230 Partners, of whom more than 200 are are completely new to Waitrose. Branch facilities for customers include a noodle and olive bar, quick-check, parking for 240 cars, a coffee shop and a home delivery service is soon to be launched. “
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Over 200 mature trees were felled to build the store, in a historic town centre green space, designated a “Conservation Area”, overlooked by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The then Malvern Town Council conducted research to establish local residents and shoppers attitude to the proposed store and, based on overwhelming opposition, attempted to prevent it’s construction, particularly given that the land was publicly owned.
The proponents of the scheme, mostly a small group of Malvern Hills District Councillors, who had originally attempted to attract another retail chain, continued, regardless of any opposition.
The effects of the conflict on the town and its politics were far reaching and long lasting.
Once the store was built, even most opponents agreed that, for the good of the area, it had to be successful. Fortunately, after a relatively slow start, it was. Waitrose’s status as a mutual, and it’s ethical policies have been a positive factor which may have been absent had another retailer occupied the site.
I’m the curator of Malvern Museum and one of our volunteer stewards compiled an album of photos during its construction. I can make this available if of interest.
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