The supermarket giant applied last September to open a second store on the High Road near East Finchley Tube station – selling alcohol from 6am to midnight, seven days a week.
Multiple residents wrote to Barnet Council to object, saying there was already a Tesco supermarket in High Street and citing concerns over late night antisocial behaviour and the threat to independent stores.
They feared the store could increase problems such as street drinking, theft and disorder around the Tube station – affecting a nearby nursery and neighbouring Cherry Tree Wood.
Others felt the store would boost traffic in an already congested area, with shoppers parking illegally and taking risky manoeuvres around the station forecourt.
While people living in nearby flats and side streets objected to noise from deliveries and late night disturbance from customers, it was also felt the presence of two Tesco stores would harm the “village” character of East Finchley.
One wrote: “This is not merely a matter of planning; it is about preserving the heart of our community. We want to maintain an environment that is safe, balanced, and community-focused — one that supports families, promotes local trade, and values wellbeing over profit.
“The costs to our neighbourhood’s quality of life are far too high, and once lost, the character of East Finchley cannot be reclaimed.”
But two residents backed the plan with one writing: “There is an existing Tesco further up the High Road that’s caused no problems as far as we know – antisocial or otherwise. Rather good actually. Also good healthy competition re other local shops and traders!”
Police offered no objections to the new supermarket and Tesco pledged to use CCTV around the sale of alcohol and have a manager on site at all times.
Barnet Council gave the green light last November and it’s set to open this week at 12-18 High Road.
One posted on the Muswell Hill and Friends Facebook page: “For those who use East Finchley Tube station, the signage has gone up on the new Tesco under the block of flats directly opposite the station.”
One replied: “An unwanted shop as there are plenty on this road, so when deliveries arrive the buses will be held up and the pedestrian crossing will be become dangerous because of the heavy traffic. Another ridiculous decision by the Council to allow this to happen!!”
Another wrote: “Seriously bad when delivery lorries arrive and park on zig zags. A real hazard for pedestrians.”
But a third said: “Will be handy when getting off the tube.”
Tesco has been approached for comment.
