Decision on Tesco Plough Inn bid deferred

Jul 7 2010 By Lorna Hughes

COUNCILLORS have deferred a decision on whether Tesco can build a new store in Moreton Cross.

The supermarket giant has applied for planning permission to demolish the Plough Inn and create the shop on the site.

Neighbouring firms are fiercely opposed to the scheme, which is recommended for approval by planning officers.

Tesco has two other stores within a few miles of the site, including a Tesco Extra shop in Bidston.

Campaigners packed a committee room at Wallasey Town Hall for last night's (Tuesday) planning meeting, expecting a decision to be made.

But they were left disappointed when councillors agreed to give planning officers time to find further information on some of the issues surrounding the application.

A report to the planning committee said: "The proposal is not considered to significantly affect the character of the area or undermine the vitality or viability of Moreton town centre."

But Stuart Beeston, who runs Carousel Flowers in Hoylake Road with his wife Tracey, has started a petition, which is now being completed in 18 shops around Moreton.

Campaigners are hoping to have the Plough Inn listed to stop Tesco from demolishing it and building the store.