Shrewsbury Tesco expansion jobs fear

The creation of new jobs as a result of the planned expansion of Shrewsbury's Tesco store could come at the expense of others elsewhere in the town, a traders' organisation has warned.

Tesco has applied for planning permission to extend its store in Battlefield Road, claiming the move will safeguard 420 jobs and create a number of new part-time positions.

But an official objection to the plans has been submitted to Shropshire Council by John Hall, from the Shop in the Loop group, who claims the expansion could hit businesses operating in Shrewsbury town centre.

"It will safeguard the jobs of the 420 people currently working there, but are they really under threat?" he said. "It will create 20 new jobs, but probably at the expense of other jobs in retail elsewhere."

Mr Hall said town centre traders were already having a difficult time due to the current economic climate.

"Trade is generally disappointing, some independents have chosen to close and more may have to do so in the future," he said.

"It is also worth noting we believe some retail lettings are on a short-term basis and may give a misleading impression of robustness."

Mr Hall urged Shropshire Council planners to reject Tesco's plans.

"Of course, we do not believe this is entirely due to Tesco. But it is surely undeniable that the growth in out-of-town shopping has had a damaging effect on the town centre," he said.

"The growth of Tesco, Sainsbury's and all other out-of-town comparison goods offers has had a cumulative and damaging effect. The planning committee has to say no to someone, and this would be an good place to start."

Tesco says the store's popularity makes expansion necessary.

"Over-trading has resulted in difficulties such as lack of stock, congestion and queues at checkouts," a statement with the planning application said.