So, now we know. The Competition Commission has rejected Tesco s appeal and has reaffirmed its decision regarding competition between supermarkets.

So, now we know. The Competition Commission has rejected Tesco's appeal and has reaffirmed its decision regarding competition between supermarkets.

It says that planning permission for another store in a supermarket chain should not be granted unless there is another, competitor, supermarket within ten minutes' drive.

Consequently, Tesco's application to build in Seaton would not now be allowed.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) were fully aware that this decision was expected, yet they rushed through Tesco's application just two weeks ago. They were fervently requested to delay their considerations until after today's decision, but to no avail.

As a consequence, they have now approved an application which, whilst strictly legal, is in direct contravention of the spirit of the commission's decision.

Why? Is it because they believed Tesco's blandishments and promises of regenerating the whole of the 15 hectare site?

I trust they have secured watertight, enforceable contracts to ensure Tesco cannot just build their supermarket and petrol station and then disregard the rest of the site.

B Dunford

Seaton