Tesco could get Oswestry store go-ahead

Tesco could be given the green light to build a new supermarket in Oswestry after the store giant emerged as the leading contender, ahead of three rival development bids in the town.

The international retail giant's plan for a new store - which is proposed in an application by timber firm Richard Burbidge Limited for its land at Whittington Road - is being recommended by Shropshire planning officers for approval at Thursday's Shropshire Council strategic planning committee meeting.

A report to be considered by planning officials, says the Richard Burbidge application is "clearly superior" to the other two proposals.

There are four proposals in total for different sites in Oswestry. One application, from J Ross Developments, to create a store and cinema on the central car park was refused and is now subject to appeal.

The other two, which will also be considered alongside the Burbidge application at the meeting, are the Smithfield livestock site in Shrewsbury Road and the car firm JT Hughes and guttering firm Guttercrest sites on Victoria Road.

All bids are being opposed by a coalition of local businesses, environment and civic groups who voice concern over the impact of any new supermarket.

Chas Nicholson, from OS21, said: "The majority of people in Oswestry can't see the need for another supermarket and they believe it will ruin the vitality of the town by drawing shoppers away from the centre."

A coalition representative will speak at Thursday's meeting at 1pm at The Marches School & Technology College.