Tesco loses appeal over store

A new Tesco store would have destroyed local shops said objectors

Tesco has lost its fight to open a store in a Devon town.

The Planning Inspectorate has thrown out the supermarket giant's planning appeal for the land at Ottery Moor Lane in Honiton.

Tesco wanted to replace its existing supermarket half a mile away in Battishorne Way.

Objectors, who said the new store would destroy trade for local shops, welcomed the rejection of the appeal as a "victory for common sense".

Deputy mayor Vivienne Ash said: "Everyone put up an excellent fight.

Tesco 'disappointed'

"The inquiry inspector took account of the impact a bigger replacement supermarket would have on Honiton's shops."

Tesco spokesman Tony Fletcher said: "We are disappointed. We felt we had a good strong planning case."

A public meeting against plans for another Tesco store in nearby Ottery St Mary is taking place in the town on Friday.

Tesco wants to develop the old Cutler Hammer switchgear factory, which has been derelict for a number of years.

It says the store will help regenerate the area and create a modern shopping environment.

The group Sustainable Ottery believes the store will impact on shops in the town and lead to job losses.

The meeting takes place at 1930 GMT in the Old Boys School in Yonder Street.