Tesco 'megashed' gets go-ahead

Local councillors have approved developers' plans for a huge Tesco distribution depot in Andover, Hampshire.

The depot, which has been dubbed a 'megashed' by local residents opposed to the scheme, will be sited on the old Andover airfield next to the busy A303.

The new building will cover in excess of 80,000m² (the equivalent of around 20 acres) if it is constructed.

Last month developer Goodman pulled out of its contract with the supermarket after it failed to reach an agreement over  environmental controls.

But the planning application for the business park development, which also includes a hotel, offices and warehousing, was not withdrawn.

Tesco said it still wanted the warehouse to open, provided that some obstacles, which are thought to include these contractual difficulties, could be overcome.