Planners signal Tesco take-off

Plans for a Tesco supermarket and petrol station in Hornsea look set to be given the go-ahead next week.

The scheme, earmarked for a greenfield site off Southgate, has been recommended for approval by East Riding Council planning officers.

A decision is expected on Thursday.

The eco superstore would create 270 jobs, including 170 full-time positions.

The 3.5 hectare site will include parking for 318 cars, for which there will be no time restriction, and a 20 acre wildlife corridor.

Deborah Hayeems, Tesco corporate affairs manager, said: "It's a real opportunity for residents."

She said the response from residents has been overwhelmingly positive, but shopkeepers have expressed concern the store could kill local businesses.

Simon Tudor, president of the Hornsea and District Chamber of Trade, said: "We need the jobs and we need the petrol station, but we don't need the competition for local traders."

Ms Hayeems said: "We have worked hard to hold public consultations and taking on board people's concerns before putting together a planning application.

"In regards to concerns about local trade, most of our trade will be from the larger food stores, so we will be keeping the residents in the town shopping.

"The town centre is only a five minute walk from Tesco, so shoppers will be able to walk to local traders after visiting the superstore."

There is no reason for local businesses to be concerned."

Concern has also been raised about increased traffic.

A new roundabout will be created in Hull Road to improve traffic flow to the site, as well cycle lanes and pedestrian access being incorporated into the plans.

The store will also include environmentally-friendly features, including onsite technology to heat and power the store, rainwater harvesting and roof vents and panels to ventilate and light the store naturally.

If planning is approved, Tesco hope the store will be open by Christmas 2010.