Supermarkets oppose Kerry Tesco plan

SUPERMARKETS already trading in Listowel are opposing a move by Tesco to open a 4,000sq ft shop on the edge of the town.

A decision on a planning application for the new store is due in a matter of weeks.

The operators of Garvey’s and Spar supermarkets have submitted their concerns to Listowel Town Council.

The Tesco supermarket, which would be expected to intensify retail competition in north Kerry, is earmarked for the Ballybunion road.

Two objections have been lodged by local residents. Also objecting are RGDATA and the Department of the Environment, which is concerned about impact on archaeological remains.

Garvey’s says it is against the location of the development at the outskirts of the town. A Garvey’s spokesperson said such a development would “threaten the rejuvenation of the town centre”.

Meanwhile, it is believed a lease has been obtained on a former Supervalu store at the rear of William Street, Listowel, to accommodate civil servants moving to the town.

The building will be converted to office use to enable the decentralisation of 50 Revenue Commissioners’ office staff to proceed. The offices are due to be ready by the end of 2006.

Tesco, meanwhile, is this week expected to announce record overall profits of over £2.2 billion (€3.17bn) for 2005. British analysts expect the group to announce that like-for-like sales rose 5% in the last seven weeks.

Tesco is hoping to open its first British store built entirely from recyclable materials as part of its new greener ideals and will announce a £100m (€144.3m) environmental fund this week.