Traders in Abingdon are piling on more pressure in their fight against plans for an extension of the Tesco store on the edge of town.

The Chamber of Commerce has written to all 51 councillors on the Vale of White Horse District Council and 21 on the town council warning them that the "vitality and viability" of the town centre is at stake.

The letter was sent two weeks ago and so far not one councillor has responded.

Chamber committee member Peter Tothill said: "We are disappointed that we have not heard from any of the councillors so far, but we shall not give in.

"Too much is at stake for traders not to put up a vigorous fight."

Six weeks ago, the Vale's development control committee considered Tesco's plans to extend its store by a quarter.

It adjourned the application because of fears about flooding and the effect a bigger store selling more non-food products would have on town-centre traders.

The council has now commissioned another report on the potential impact on retail trade and also wants more information about flood prevention measures.

Planning officers recommended approval, based on reports from the Environment Agency and retail consultants Nathaniel Litchfield and Partners.

The Highways department did not oppose the plan.

NLP's report said a bigger Tesco would not cause significant damage to town centre trade, but some councillors are not convinced and neither is the Chamber of Commerce.

It says the Tesco extension would be equal to 25 shopping units in the Bury Street precinct.

Mr Tothill said: "Since the arrival of Tesco 20 years ago, the town centre has suffered a significant loss of choice in food and convenience goods.

"We have lost six butchers, two greengrocers, one baker and countless more independent retailers.

"The position is: a protracted fight with Tesco, or the demise of the town centres."

The leader of the Vale council Jerry Patterson said: "If, having taken professional advice from several quarters, there are no grounds for objecting, then we must approve the application."

Tesco has said it has made a strong case for an improved store.

9:59am Thursday 22nd June 2006

Print

Email this