Although Tesco claim to be providing only a "replacement food store", if the expansion plans are approved their new store will have FIVE times the current selling space for so-called "comparison" goods - ie adults and children's clothing, sports equipment, soft-furnishings, floor coverings, furniture, electrical and music equipment, hardware and ornamental items.

Tesco's own figures show that as a result of the proposed expansion Helston's in-town Somerfield supermarket could suffer a 15 per cent decrease in its trade. Apart from the impact on the small family and independent retailers in Helston, the chains such as Woolworth's, Peacock's, WH Smith, etc, would be likely to lose trade as well, which could make them consider leaving the town.

Tesco themselves say that there are only five areas where there is no overlap with Helston shops: arts/crafts, jewellery, car parts, antiques and (they say) furniture.

It's also likely that Lidl will be selling a range of "comparison" goods as well as food at the St John's site. The town couldn't survive this two-pronged attack and Tesco already have a large store at Clodgey Lane. They must not be allowed to take more trade away from Helston's town-centre shops.

Yvonne Lewer, Peninsula Friends of the Earth