Local Hero's

Case studies

The Strachans' farm, part of the East Suffolk food web. Photo: CPRE

The East Suffolk food web

Mapping the local food web
In 1998, CPRE Suffolk volunteer Caroline Cranbrook surveyed the network of retailers, producers and suppliers making up the local food economy in the area around Saxmundham in East Suffolk. A new out-of-town superstore was proposed and Caroline was concerned that, if successful, it would have a devastating effect on the area. She feared that the network of local food shops and businesses would collapse and local jobs would be lost.

Caroline surveyed 81 food shops in 7 market towns and 19 villages. She uncovered a web of links between these retailers and the local producers who supplied them. Nearly 300 local or regional food producers and wholesalers had business with these local shops. These local businesses provided local jobs for local people within walking or cycling distance of people's homes, and often with the flexible hours suitable for those with family commitments. The local food economy was helping to sustain many other businesses in the area too, such as electricians, bankers, accountants and plumbers. The local food web was flourishing.

The survey showed there was no retailing need for a large new superstore and that this local food economy would probably be destroyed if planning permission for its construction was granted. Sixty-seven of the 81 local retailers thought their businesses would close if they had to compete with a large supermarket. Suffolk Coastal District Council refused the application...and the East Suffolk food web survived and flourished.

Eight years on
Eight years later, this area of East Suffolk is still free from supermarkets. Caroline has carried out a second survey finding a vibrant local economy. East Suffolk has become a fine food destination, attracting visitors to see the traditionally farmed landscapes and sample local products such as venison, ice cream, strawberries and the first Suffolk salami. There has been an increase in demand for this fresh, traceable and distinctive food, and more interest in local farming practices, animal welfare and other environmental issues. We have published a report in association with Plunkett Foundation, The Real Choice, based on this survey. We have used its findings to argue for local and national planning and retail policies which will help to support food economies e that in East Suffolk, and encourage new local businesses to develop.