Tesco plans 'due soon' (From Gazette Series)

Tesco plans 'due soon'

A COMPLEX web of planning issues is still hindering development of a Tesco supermarket in Dursley.

But Stroud District Council senior planners are adamant the company is still committed to the town and the store is more than just a distant prospect. They are anticipating an imminent planning application for the Castle Street site.

Head of development services Barry Wyatt said good progress is still being made on the store.

"Tesco has confirmed its commitment to coming to the area," he added. "But, with such a complex project, involving several land-owners and legal issues, it all takes time. We've resolved the major issues, but details continue to crop up."

Claims that a planning application would be submitted late last year did not amount to anything and the council has blamed complex legal agreements for hindering progress.

Spokesman David Marshall said it was a complicated deal.

"The agreements needed to enable this development are still being discussed and finalised," he explained. "As well as involving three land-owners, all of whom have to agree the documents, there are the issues of relocating the fire station to a new site at Rednock School, continuing the provision of the youth service and protecting the town's public car parking.

"We are agreeing a timetable with Tesco that will lead up to the opening of the store. This will be publicised as soon as it is available."