TESCO is considering its next move after an application to build a supermarket in Tenbury was refused.

A meeting at Tenbury High School on Wednesday saw Malvern Hills planners turn down the proposal for the store on the Cattle Market site.

However, Councillor Tony Penn, who represents Tenbury on Malvern Hills District Council, made a plea to have the decision deferred to allow further negotiation with Tesco about the design of the building.

Coun Penn told the meeting that there was a silent majority in favour of the scheme who were reluctant to speak out and warned that there was a good chance that Tesco would appeal against the decision and “could well win”.

But Councillor Phil Grove, who also represents Tenbury on the council, where he is leader of the authority, backed the recommendation of planning offers that the scheme be rejected.

Dawn Worgan, town clerk, said that Tenbury Town Council voted for rejection because it did not consider that the building was fitting for the area.

Sophie Akokhia, Tesco’s corporate affairs manager, said: “We are disappointed with the planning committee’s decision and will take some time to consider our options.

"I would like to give thanks to residents and councillors who helped shape our proposals, as well everyone who pledged their support through Facebook.”