ASHBURTON retailers have launched a Save Our Shops campaign to fight plans for a new supermarket on the edge of town.

And their MP has waded into the argument, saying he has 'serious concern' about a supermarket on the edge of town.

The Co-op wants to build a 4,000 sq ft convenience store at Linhay 21, off Eastern Road, on land earmarked for office use.

Retailers fear that an out-of-town store would threaten independent town centre shops which add to the town's unique moorland character.

A retail impact assessment undertaken for the Co-op by NJL Consulting states that the new store would have little or no effect. The chamber of trade rejects this.

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