Do we REALLY need another Tesco on Cheriton High Street?

Shepway District Council have sent out details of a series of planning applications by Tesco for their proposed new "Tesco Express" store on Cheriton High Street. The planning applications are for a new shopfront and other shop fittings, and a new cash till and security bollards in front of the store.

Tim Prater, former County Councillor for Folkestone West (which covers Cheriton High Street), said:

"I don't see any need for a new Tesco Express there, given that there is ALREADY a large Tesco about half a mile away on Cheriton High Street!

"Cheriton High Street itself still has a number of independent stores, the future of which will be thrown into doubt by yet another Tesco. This is a Tesco too far."

Shepway District Councillor Lynne Beaumont said:

"There are already a number of cash machines in Cheriton High Street - including at Llloyds just two doors away. Why does this development need yet another ATM, and associated security bollards?"

Tell us what YOU think: does Cheriton High Street need another Tesco, and should it have a cash machine? If not a Tesco, what sort of shop would you prefer to see there instead?

The applications described as for "Land Adjoining 38 Cheriton High Street, Folkestone, Kent" can be seen online and comments submitted to Shepway District Council via the links below:

Y13/0958/SH
Installation of an ATM to the shopfront
CONSULTATION EXPIRY: 10th October 2013

Y13/0959/SH
Installation of a new shopfront, a means of escape door on the side elevation and other external alterations.
CONSULTATION EXPIRY: 10th October 2013

Y13/0960/SH
Installation of 3 wall mounted AC units and a floor mounted two-fan condenser upon the first floor roof.
CONSULTATION EXPIRY: 10th October 2013

Y13/0961/SH
Installation of 7 bollards to the front of the unit
CONSULTATION EXPIRY: 10th October 2013