I'm going to start this one off by saying I shop at Tesco so this commentary on the area is not meant to be in any way derogatory towards the company. The shop provides a vital service for the suburb, with not only goods to buy but also a Café and fast food outlets for socialising, a photography shop, beauty parlor, a charity shop, recycling points, electric car recharging points, petrol station, banking and a myriad of other useful things not found for another couple of miles in any direction. All the staff I have encountered have been cheerful and efficient and I've enjoyed their friendly banter when visiting the tills and cafe.
Now back to the walks!
Danestone was a brand new suburb back in 1985. A primary school, police station and doctors practice had been built. In 1989 a 100,000 square foot 1 Tesco supermarket opened by the Persley Bridge. As part of the construction agreement a new community hall was also constructed.
In 2000 the store increased in size becoming a "Tesco Extra"2 and gaining a second floor for clothing and electrical goods.
Bus services are cut back, shoppers are no longer dropped off and picked up with their heavy shopping - the path from the main road has been carved into the embankment by many feet.
No uncanny valley, just uncanny balcony
Layers of change, same old hand rail. One step higher than the others to keep you on your toes.
I am left with question as to what makes a community? Local services are being peeled back. Aside from the reduction in bus routes, the local police station is shut and other community services lack funding.
Where are the places to congregate? - cinemas, theatres, galleries, restaurants. You could join one of the local religious groups or go round to the care home for "butteries and a blether". Some take-aways exist, although less than before the pandemic. Of the two pubs, one is shut for refurbishment, maybe it will return?
So stay at home or get in the car? The walkers way is not an easy one.