WHEN Forest planners refused to grant planning permission for a new Tesco store in Coleford last year, they sited the design of the building as the overriding reason.

Tesco's management appealed against the decision and the ensuing public inquiry – which began back in January and was subsequently held in June and July – concluded last week.

Planning Inspector David Leeming indicated that he would formally announce his decision by November.

Christopher Young, the barrister for Tesco and P&D Builders, told the inquiry that the planner's reason for refusal was very specific.

He said: "Members wanted a Tesco store that looked like those in Chepstow and Cirencester, which are a style known as Essex barns.

"Such designs were built in the 1980s and 90s and were a product of their time.

"However, they contrast sharply with modern designs, especially in terms of the efficient use of resources.

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