Over 1,200 local residents support a new supermarket

Over 1,200 local people have expressed their support for a new supermarket in Sheringham, strongly suggesting a clear majority of residents support a new store in the town.

Tesco recently sent a leaflet to residents in and around the town asking them to get in touch if they supported a new supermarket. Over 900 wrote back or emailed saying they supported the project - a huge response to a mailing like this. These people join over 300 supporters who have signed up to a special Facebook group - We want a Tesco in Sheringham - set up and run by a local student.

Nick Gellatly of Tesco said, "The response from the community has been very encouraging, it's a clear sign that they want a new supermarket here. That's not surprising given the economic downturn. In times like this people want to save money in their main food shopping trip and do it close to home. We are working hard on improved plans to submit to the council and hope they will listen to local people's views."

Jono Read, creator of the We Want a Tesco in Sheringham Facebook group in 2007, Holt resident and UEA student, said: "Almost everyone I speak to wants a new supermarket here and it's great to see so many people are already backing the plans. Like anyone, I'm worried about what's going to happen with the economy and a new supermarket is going to help by offering good value local shopping and new jobs."

Mel Clarke from the Protesc supporters group added: "When the last plans were turned down people in and around the town were devastated so I'm delighted that this proves what we have been saying all along - the majority of people in and around Sheringham want a store to open. What everyone has to do now is write to their local councillors when the plans come out - decision makers need to know that the people of the town want this to happen."