THIS is what a new supermarket could look like if it is given the go ahead on the edge of a Suffolk town.

Retail giant Tesco has now submitted a planning application to Suffolk Coastal District Council for a site in Abbey Road, Leiston.

This artist’s impression shows what any new supermarket could look like should it be given the green light.

Tesco revealed last year that it wanted to build a 20,000 sq ft store next to Jewson on the edge of the town centre. Bosses say they have consulted with residents and the move has a lot of support. They also claim it will generate more than 200 jobs, while also providing significant investment for the town.

But the scheme is controversial and a “Lay off Leiston” group has been formed in opposition. Local retailers fear that because the proposed supermarket is out of town it will take footfall away from the main shopping area and harm trade.

Chris Nichols, chairman of Lay off Leiston, who runs Nichols butchery, said: “Our concerns remain the same. We have got several hundred people supporting us and I just hope the district council listen to us when they consider the proposal.”

The application also includes plans for six business units, 250 car parking spaces, recycling facilities and improved footpaths to the town centre. Tesco has also said it wants to recruit staff as locally as possible.