CAMPAIGNERS have vowed to continue fighting supermarket giant Tesco and stop a new store being built on the site of an Areley Kings pub.

Earlier this year, Wyre Forest District Council refused planning permission to extend the Squirrel Inn and convert it into a Tesco Express – a decision which was greeted with joy amongst local residents and businesses who had protested against the application.

But Tesco has indicated that it will appeal the decision, prompting fresh anger and concern from campaigners.

More than 100 people packed out the Methodist Church Hall in Areley Common on Monday (October 27) night to discuss the next stage of their campaign.

Stanley Gibson, Chairman of the Areley Kings First Committee, told the Shuttle that residents were concerned about the affect a new store would have on the village.

He said: “It was great to see so many people attend the meeting and the strength of feeling against Tesco has not diminished at all.

“There is a lot of anxiety about extra traffic, noise and pollution but the main concern is the potential loss of the village as we know it.

“Many residents, particularly the elderly, feel that a new Tesco store could result in the loss of small local businesses where they get a friendly, personal service.

“But we are very confident of seeing them off. We were successful in getting planning refused in the first place and seeing people’s determination at the meeting has given us a real boost to keep on fighting.”

Mr Gibson added a coffee morning will also be held on Saturday (November 1) from 10am-12noon at Areley Kings Hall to help raise funds for the campaign.

Tesco has taken out a lease from Punch Taverns for the Squirrel Inn but councillors threw out the proposal to extend the site at a meeting in May – despite planning officers recommending approval.

Bosses say the planned store would create around 20 new jobs, with access designed as ‘one way in and one way out’ and deliveries being taken on site and not on the road.

The company is currently determining the format of the appeal but it is anticipated a hearing could take place in early December.

Simon Petar, from Tesco Corporate Affairs, said: “Our proposed Express store in Areley Kings will be a welcome addition to the local community, providing more choice for convenient shopping.

“We know there are lots of people who would welcome the store and the jobs it would bring but we are also aware of the concerns of some. We hope the appeal addresses all of these.”