Tesco setback as Battlefield scheme hit by new delay

Supermarket giant Tesco has been told to go back to the drawing board and draw up new plans to expand its store in Shrewsbury amid fears its expansion could lead to job losses elsewhere.

A decision on the scheme has been deferred because of concerns town centre trade and jobs would be threatened if Tesco were to sell more non-food items.

Store bosses claim the multi-million pound development at Battlefield,would safeguard 420 jobs and create 20 part-time positions.

But Shropshire Council officers will now discuss decreasing the proposed increase in non-food floorspace with Tesco agents.

The ruling comes despite officers recommending the scheme for approval at a meeting of the central planning committee.

Sophie Akokhia, Tesco corporate affairs manager, said: "The store is overtrading meaning crowded aisles, checkouts and too many gaps on our shelves."

See also:

• Decision looms on Shrewsbury Tesco expansion bid

• Tesco’s extension plans given boost

• Tesco expansion ‘could hit Shrewsbury town centre’