FELIXSTOWE: Residents in Walton are being asked for their views on proposals for a multi-million pound Tesco superstore on one of the community's remaining fields.

FELIXSTOWE: Residents in Walton are being asked for their views on proposals for a multi-million pound Tesco superstore on one of the community's remaining fields.

The controversial project for the 30-acre site in Walton High Street has already split the community - with some people feeling it will be a big benefit for the seaside town, but with others firmly against.

Members of Felixstowe Labour Party are carrying out a survey to gauge the public's view and say responses are pouring in.

Labour town and district councillor Mike Deacon said: “I am horrified. It is another attack on our greenfield sites.

“This will have an enormous impact on Walton High Street and Trimley High Road.

“Shops will close if this goes ahead.

“The High Street and High Road are already very, very busy and this proposed store could be 24/7. Local roads will not be able to cope with this development.”

Landowners Trinity College, Cambridge, are preparing to submit plans for a 60,000 sq ft store, plus 250 houses, including sheltered homes for the elderly, a 60-bed hotel, pub, private medical facility, three small shops and three small business units.

There would also be a new road through the site linking High Road and Candlet Road, the Walton by-pass off the A14.

Tesco has said the store will create new jobs for the area, especially the long-term unemployed.

Does Felixstowe need a Tesco superstore? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk