Protesters wait for result of Tesco battle (From Worcester News)

Protesters wait for result of Tesco battle

8:30am Friday 16th January 2009 in

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CAMPAIGNERS battling Tesco plans to build a convenience store in their area will have to wait to find out if they have been successful.

People living near the proposed site of a new Tesco Express store in Barbourne Road, Worcester, attended the third and final day of a full planning inquiry this week.

But a final decision by the government planning inspector could take seven or more weeks, according to planning inspectorate guidelines.

Protesters staged a demonstration outside the Guildhall inquiry venue venting their anger at the proposals, which also include plans to build up to 18 flats on the site.

If approved, the Tesco store, opening from 7am until 11pm, would be the fifth of its type in the city and is sited half-a-mile away from the Tesco Express in the former post office next to Foregate Street railway station that is due to open in March.

Now the inquiry’s public hearings stage has finished, the planning inspector will consider all the evidence, basing a final decision on the development’s need and the impact.

Val Monaghan, of Shrubbery Avenue, is among those opposing the plans and said it was the fourth time since 2005 the supermarket giant had tried to put a store on the site.

She said: “We cannot see the need and I think we’ve demonstrated the negative impact.

“There are at least half a dozen convenience stores in the area so we really don’t see any need. I wouldn’t mind if it was just flats, the land is set down for residential development but I would oppose any store being built.”

Juliette Bishop, Tesco corporate affairs manager, said: “We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to bringing a small Express store and residential units to Barbourne Road, Worcester, and although we are aware some people are against our proposals, we have been encouraged by a significant number of expressions of support for our scheme.

“Experience shows an Express store can add further vitality to an area like Barbourne Road and benefit local businesses and the community.”