CAMPAIGNERS turned out in force to voice their opposition against plans to turn a popular pub into a Tesco supermarket.

But while planners deferred the grocery giant’s plans to extend the existing Victoria and Albert Inn, in Seaton Delaval, they said they are powerless to stop moves to convert the historic hostelry.

Objectors raised concerns over road safety, claiming a new supermarket would only add to problems on a “blind corner” they claimed is already congested with parking shoppers, and bemoaned the loss of the heart of their community.

But Tesco hit back claiming trade at the pub had been in decline for a decade, it was still struggling and that if they didn’t turn it into a shop, somebody else would.

Father of two Stephen Keir, 38, who lives near to the pub and who regularly visits with his family, said any assertions that the business was failing was an inaccurate assessment of outdated information.

“It is the centre of the community and should be protected,” he said.

“The services it provides for the community are excellent.

“Things like it providing takeaway meals for the elderly as there isn’t a meals on wheels service anymore.

“And since the current tenant took over in October we hear the takings have trebled.

“I went in with my family on Sunday and he was turning people away it was so busy.”

Mr Keir said among the fears of residents was that if “the only viable pub in the village” was closed, it could leave them with nowhere to go.

“There are three other pubs in the village – one has just closed and we hear the landlords at the other two have handed their notice in, so Seaton Delaval could be left without a pub,” he said.

Objections were also raised by Holywell ward councillor Bobby Nixon who said it might only be a matter of time if the plans went ahead before there was a major accident outside the pub – possibly involving emergency vehicles rushing down the A192 to North Tyneside Hospital.

“The fact is that once the store is opened people will come in their cars from all over – they won’t walk – and many will end up parking on the main road because of insufficient parking spaces. There is a massive problem at the pub and the planners aren’t aware just how horrendous this is going to be.”

The Victoria and Albert Inn was built in 1836, but stands on the site of an old coaching tavern which existed at least 100 years before. It is currently owned by “pubco” Punch Taverns.

Under Northumbria’s planning rules it is permitted to change category A4 properties, such as pubs, to category A1 use, like a supermarket, with little planning consent.

Doug Wilson, head of corporate affairs for Tesco in the North East said he was aware of the level of feeling about the plans, but told the planning committee it was their job to decide if a proposed single-storey extension which would add 108sqm to the building could go ahead, not decide on any change of use.

The committee decided to defer any decision on the plans until February 14, so that they could carry out a site visit – a move Mr Wilson welcomed.

“Members will be able to see first hand any issues raised,” he said. “But it is important to remember that the scheme was recommended for approval by planning officers and hopefully we’ll be able to go forward in the near future.”

It is the centre of the community and should be protected. The services it provides are excellent