Highbury’s crusade against Sainsbury’s in Blackstock Road will continue on the steps of the town hall tomorrow.

As reported in the Gazette last month, the supermarket giant returned with another bid to open a Local store at the former Highbury Vale police station site – after Islington Council and then the government had rejected its bids.

There has been huge opposition from independent shop owners and neighbours. They will take the campaign to tomorrow’s meeting of the full council, where questions will be asked of members.

Highbury East Cllrs Caroline Russell (Green) and Sue Lukes (Lab) have already spoken out strongly against Sainsbury’s latest bid to open.

Business owner Hitesh Patel said: “Arsenal Wines is one of the longest serving retailers in Highbury. It’s been in business, serving our community, for nearly 40 years. But if Sainsbury’s open a new store, we have no idea if we will be able to continue.

“The council should be protecting small businesses and retailers and should see they are not doing this to help or support our community, this is pure greed.”