Eve Thompson – Reporter – 14th August 2026
Residents are urging Winchester City Council to block a new chain bakery from opening in the city.
Gail’s Bakery is due to open in the former Russell and Bromley shop on High Street at the end of August, despite fierce criticism from some residents.
The petition, launched on 38 Degrees, has attracted more than 100 signatures calling on the council to reject the proposal.
The petition says another national chain could hurt independent cafés already struggling with rising costs and changing customer habits.
Six of the nine comments published on the website say Winchester already has “too many cafes”.
One comment said: “I’ve signed this petition because I’m absolutely sick and tired of seeing the only shops in Winchester being eateries, nail bars or phone shops.
“It’s about time the council looked at what we actually need as people within Winchester. We’ve got no proper shoe shops, clothes shops, or retail shops at all actually. I just hope they take some notice, but I very much doubt it.”
Sponsored by Palestine Solidarity Winchester, the petition also attacks GAIL’s majority owner, Bain Capital, which it describes as a “vocal supporter of Israel” with investments in Israeli technology and cyber-security firms.
Two public objections have been lodged with the city council over GAIL’s planning proposals.
A spokesperson from Winchester City Council said: “The use of the building as a bakery doesn’t require planning permission, as the previous use and planned use are both classed as retail shops.
“The Council has received applications for the installation of signage and for alterations to a listed building which relate to the use of the building, and these are under consideration.”
They cite concerns over the design, the need for the bakery and the space outdoor seating would take up on the High Street.
GAIL’s is a bakery chain selling artisan bread, pastries, cakes and coffee, with branches in Salisbury and Petersfield.
GAIL’s declined to comment.
To view the petition, visit https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/ban-gail-s-bakery-from-winchester
The planning applications cover an illuminated fascia sign, an awning canopy, a hanging sign and internal and external alterations to the premises.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 