24-04-2025
We live in England's smallest town, Domino's you are not welcome here!
Furious residents in England's tiniest town are up in arms after Domino's lodged plans to open a new branch on their historic High Street.
Locals in the picture-postcard town of Manningtree, Essex, have launched a fierce backlash after the pizza giant applied to take over a former Barclays bank that's lain empty since June last year.
The fast-food chain wants to open daily from 11am to 11pm, promising 25 new jobs – but residents aren't having it.
More than 120 people have objected, slamming the idea as a threat to the town's unique charm – with only one person supporting the move.
Independent shop owner Sarah Mawkes, who runs The Wholefood Store, didn't hold back.
'This is the slow erosion of our culture,' she said. 'We've created something special here in Manningtree — this would ruin it.'
Others warned it could 'open the floodgates' to more big chains rolling in and destroying the local economy.
With just 47 acres to its name, Manningtree holds the title of England's smallest town, and prides itself on its cosy, independent feel — think tearooms, boutiques and a single Tesco Express.
The idea of a Domino's popping up on the High Street has left residents stunned.
Sophie Edwards, who lives just yards from the proposed site, called the plan a 'total eyesore.'
She said: 'The Barclays building is one of the first buildings you see when entering the town.
'To be greeted by a Domino's sign would be totally out of place for our historic town.'
The proposed site sits next to a Post Office and directly opposite a beloved tearoom.
Rowan Hunter, who runs The Stour Store next door, said it would only lead to more development in the area.
'It would be a complete eyesore compared to the other businesses.'
Even those in nearby Mistley are weighing in.
Sally Johns joked: 'It almost feels like an April Fools gag, so ridiculous is the idea.'
Meanwhile, nutritional therapist Catherine Arnold pointed to the UK's ballooning obesity crisis.
'We don't need more ultra-processed food,' she said.
But not everyone is outraged, Stephen Ivell, from Lawford, said objectors are just scared of change.
'Younger families would welcome more choice,' he argued.
Domino's insists the move is a good thing.
A spokeswoman said: 'We bring the joy of the occasional takeaway to customers across the country and use data and local market knowledge to identify where there is demand for our store.
'We also provide employment and development opportunities for local people.'
The company says it will manage litter and plans to create two rear parking spaces.
