all valid points - especially the business degree..... BUT 1-1.5 miles - each way - is a long way if you've got a kid in tow or are only looking for a paper / milk, or elderly, or dont have a car.
You're more likely to jump in the car, and that's not good for the environment.
on the original plans for the area, there was a site for local shops and a pub i believe, but the private owners put paid to that and opposed the idea.
I think it is the only thing that is missing from the area.