MEMBERS of the public will get a second chance to learn more about controversial proposals to open a new supermarket in their seaside town.

Retail giant Tesco has unveiled plans to build an Express store in Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, on the site of the derelict Crossways Garage. The scheme, which would be next to the Co-op, also includes five flats above the shop space.

Tesco revealed its plans at a public exhibition at the end of May and the proposals sparked a number of comments, with some welcoming the increased choice it will bring to the town and others concerned about the affect it could have on independent traders. Aldeburgh Town Council has vowed to hold a public meeting at the beginning of July to gauge opinions.

The second public viewing will give people another chance to look at the proposals and quiz those behind the scheme, which is being led by Pigeon Investment Management Ltd.

The company’s Clive Thompson said: “This is a great opportunity for Aldeburgh.

“Not only will we provide much needed new homes but also jobs and services for local people.”

Louise Gosling from Tesco continued: “At the last exhibition many people told me that while Aldeburgh is well served for speciality shops, there is nowhere to do food shopping on a budget.

“They want somewhere to buy affordable food and welcome the consumer choice this shop will bring.

“Because we will provide only basic groceries, we will not compete with the speciality shops on the High Street.”

Concerns have been expressed that should Tesco move into Aldeburgh then it could set a precedent for other national chains to follow - turning the resort into a “clone town” with very little variety.

Others have questioned the need for another supermarket - particularly as the town already has two Co-ops and a Tesco store has just opened in nearby Saxmundham.

The public viewing will be held on Tuesday, July 10 from 4pm to 8pm at the church hall in Victoria Road, Aldeburgh.

Members of the project team will be on hand to answer any questions and people will be able to register their views.