A BID for a controversial new Tesco store in the upmarket Suffolk coastal town of Aldeburgh has been officially submitted, the EADT can reveal.

Developers behind the scheme want to build an Express store on the derelict Crossways Garage site in Saxmundham Road.

The proposal would include five flats situated above the shop and space for 17 car parking spaces.

But the move has prompted strong opposition from local traders who fear their businesses could suffer if the application is approved.

GL Hearn Ltd submitted the bid on behalf of Pigeon developers, which owns the Crossways site, to Suffolk Coastal District Council on Friday.

The plans include a shop floor space of 370sqm with two upper floors comprising of flats, a loading bay, landscaping and refuse areas.

Naomi Tarry, chairman of Aldeburgh Business Association, said businesses and residents are concerned a new Tesco store would be detrimental to Aldeburgh high street.

“One of the main reasons people come to Aldeburgh is because it is unique and has an array of independent traders,” she said. “We think Tesco customers are already very well served in the area with a store just ten minutes away.

“We are fully in support of competition but we think Tesco will have a detrimental effect on Aldeburgh high street.”

Ms Tarry said money spent in independent shops is recycled another three times around the local economy, unlike money spent in a chain supermarket.

She added: “We have written to all our members and we are going to be putting petitions in shops and asking people to show their support for our independent traders before putting together a comprehensive opposition plan.”

Will Stanton, director of developers Pigeon, said there has also been significant support for the application from some corners of the town, including disabled people who are not able to drive further afield to get their shopping,

He said more than 200 letters had been received in support of a new Tesco store.