Retail giant Tesco has announced that it does not intend to appeal against the planning decision which put an end to its 13 year fight to build a supermarket in Hadleigh.

In September, Babergh District Council refused the company’s bid to put a store on the former Brett works because “it would cause substantial harm to the High Street and the local economy, resulting in an adverse effect on the sustainability and viability of Hadleigh.”

Last night, Tesco issued a statement confirming that it would not take the decision to the Government’s planning inspectorate. The firm intends to enter into discussions with the local councils and the wider community about how the land – which it owns a substantial proportion of – can be used.

The news has been welcomed by people who campaigned against the store and by the town’s chamber of commerce.

A Tesco spokesman said: “We were disappointed by the refusal of our proposed store at the Brett Works site, particularly as the planning officers recommended the application for approval. We know a Tesco store would have created new investment and jobs for the area. However, we respect the democratic planning process and have decided not to appeal the committee’s decision. We own much of the property and are currently considering alternative uses for the site. We have let the Leader of the Council and Planning Committee know our decision and look forward to discussing further options for this property with the council and community.”