Supermarket giant Tesco could increase the size of one of its flagship Sussex stores by up to a third.

Up to 200 jobs would be created by the multi-million pound scheme to boost trade at the Holmbush store in Shoreham.

Areas selling clothing, electrical and leisure goods and a cafe would be created as Tesco bids to compete with rivals Asda, Sainsbury's and Somerfield.

Floor space would increase by 2,407sqm to 9,830sqm.

Outside delivery and handling areas would also be increased, resulting in the loss of 130 spaces in the car park.

Businesses leaders fear the expansion could kill trade in surrounding areas.

Tesco originally submitted plans for a major expansion of the Holmbush superstore to Adur District Council in January last year. Planning committee councillors are being recommended to approve the scheme after Tesco carried out a trade impact survey.

It showed that last year 40 per cent of money spent on convenience goods in the area went to Tesco. This is expected to rise to 43 per cent by 2008.

Somerfield in Shoreham town centre is predicted to lose £160,000 per year in trade to Tesco. The overall loss of trade in the town is expected to be about £260,000 annually.

Tesco predicts its turnover at Holmbush will increase by £5.15 million.

Beryl Ferrers-Guy, of Southwick Chamber of Commerce, said: "We are still very much opposed to this huge expansion at the Holmbush site. When it first opened in 1990 we were told that would be it, there would be no increase in size.

"Now it appears it is just going to keep growing and small businesses in Shoreham, Lancing and Southwick will close because they cannot compete.

"On top of that, Adur has now introduced parking charges while shoppers can still park free at Holmbush. As a result, places like Southwick Square are empty while the car parks at Holmbush are packed.

"It is time Adur stood up for local businesses and had the courage to say no to Tesco."

Concerns have also been raised by Brighton and Hove City Council. It fears an increase in non-food sales could affect shopping areas in the city.

People living near Holmbush have repeated fears about increased noise and disturbance from traffic and deliveries.

Four residents have asked to speak to councillors when the application is considered at a planning committee meeting on Monday.

A Tesco spokesman said: "As we said when the original application was submitted, our research shows there is a demand among our customers for these services. At the same time we have to remain competitive and respond to our rivals selling non-food goods."

The committee is being recommended to approve the expansion and will ask Tesco to provide £80,000 towards transport improvements for the area.

Tuesday, August 30, 2005