Tesco plan hangs on road deal

Controversial plans for a Tesco in Stourport, which would create 250 jobs, look set to be approved – provided local roads and buses get £673,000 of improvements.

Developers of the project on the former Carpets of Worth site are being asked to sign an agreement to pay for improved transport links around the town.

The food chain will have to contribute towards the improvement of a junction at York Street, High Street , Bridge Street and New Street in the town before the store can be opened.

It is also being asked to pay to upgrade pedestrian and cycle routes around the town.

A travel plan, agreed with Worcestershire County Council's highways department, has also been called for by Wyre Forest District Council.

The district council's planning and development control committee last night agreed delegated authority for officers to approve the application subject to it being rubber-stamped by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Hilary Benn.

Tesco also needs to agree to various conditions including meeting the costs of improvements to roads and services.

About 100 people packed the Sixth Form Centre of Stourport High School to hear councillors debate the proposals.