TESCO has promised planning concessions to Sale Moor residents — including a reduction in its trading hours — following protests over its up-coming Norris Road store.


A petition opposing the development, which contained 747 signatures, was received by the council when the supermarket giant announced it was to change the use of the use of the existing Piper pub — yet Tesco was granted a late alcohol licence in November.

Residents main concerns regarded noise, ASB caused by alcohol served late at night and the operation of a 24-hour ATM machine and the commercial damage the new Tesco would cause to the long-established Norris Road Food Store, which is next door to what will become a Tesco Express.


However, at a Trafford planning committee meeting on December 13, Matthew Brooke, a town planner working on behalf of Tesco, said the supermarket was willing to reduce the hours in which it will sell alcohol.


“I can confirm that Tesco will accept conditions of 7am-10pm, they’re happy with that,” he said.


Following representations from ward councillor Mike Freeman, Mr Brooke said Tesco would also look into reducing the operational hours of the ATM machine to be in line with the store’s.


The four applications put before the committee were regarding singage, lighting, air conditioning and the cash point machine, all of which were passed unanimously.
 

Welcoming the planning outcome, Councillor Freeman said: “Local ward councillors will work closely with Tesco to ensure they live up to their reputation as a socially responsible company.


“We acknowledge the development of the site will be a vast improvement, however it is really important residents’ concerns and views are listened to and acted upon by Tesco.”