CAMPAIGNERS fighting against a controversial supermarket application have warned the battle was “just the beginning” after the application was rejected.
MANNINGTREE/LAWFORD: Campaigners fighting against a controversial supermarket application have warned the battle was “just the beginning” after the application was rejected.
Tesco wants to build a new food store on land on the boundary of Manningtree and Lawford – a proposal which has divided the two neighbouring communities.
Planning officers had recommended the go-ahead but Tendring district councillors have now refused the application, with not a single vote in favour.
A total of 11 members of the development control committee voted against it and six abstained.
The refusal has been welcomed by campaigners, but Tesco has said it is now reviewing its options and remains “fully committed” to its scheme which its says will create about 100 full-time equivalent jobs.
The supermarket giant had already changed its original application to make its car park closer to the town, making it more convenient for people wanting to visit other shops.
However, the committee rejected the plans on three grounds, saying it had concerns about the negative impact of the extra traffic and the knock-on effect the store would have on shops in the surrounding area.
The design was also called into question and was the third reason for the refusal.
Manningtree Mayor Lee Lay-Flurrie spoke at Tuesday night’s meeting about the impact of extra traffic on the town’s narrow streets.
She said: “I have to be pleased with the outcome – I know what damage it would have done to the High Street and all the roads leading into the High Street.
“There would have been an excessive amount of traffic produced had this planning application gone through.”
Nick Gellatly, regional corporate affairs manager for Tesco, said: “We’re disappointed with the result; however, we are reviewing our options and remain fully committed to delivering more food shopping choice for Manningtree and Lawford at this location.”
n Should Tesco be able to build a store at this location? Write to Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk
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