A supermarket chain is attempting to extend opening times for a controversial new store.

Tesco is set to apply for an extension to opening hours originally agreed when district chiefs green-lit the Express store in Aldeburgh at the beginning of last year.

The firm initially bid to sell alcohol and ‘late-night refreshment’ from 6am to midnight Monday to Sunday – but planners insisted the store could be open only from 8am to 10pm six days a week, and from 9am to 7pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

However, the company now wants to extend opening times from 7am to 11pm seven days a week.

In a letter to Suffolk Coastal, planning consultant CgMs, said: “The extension of the opening hours for an extra hour will further enable the unit to serve the community sufficiently by providing a ‘top up’ shopping service and serve the local communities’ needs.

“The noise caused by opening the store for an extra hour in the morning and evenings and on Sundays will not be significant to cause disruption, especially given the site’s location on a busy road.

“As the extension of the opening hours is only for an additional hour in the mornings and evenings and in the evenings on Sunday, it is not considered this is significant enough to adversely affect the amenity of neighbouring residents.”

Naomi Tarry, of Aldeburgh Business Association, argued that the change would make a difference to residents. “We are extremely disappointed that Tesco should now make this application,” she said.

Ruth Proctor, Aldeburgh town clerk, said the matter had been discussed by the council and that there were a number of concerns raised. She added: “We are keen to work with independent traders in the town and we would hate to see their trade fall because of extended opening hours. We’re also concerned that it will be in a predominantly residential area at that time of night.”

The district council said that all planning applications are considered on their merits and that people were welcome to submit comments.

A Tesco spokesman said: “We’re always looking to make sure our customers can do their shopping when it is convenient for them.”