THE promoters of the plan for a large superstore with a 500-space free car park and petrol station at Mill Street, Leominster, appear to have jumped the gun in claiming a positive response from the town council and community (Hereford Times, April 25).

I have been concerned from the outset because of the likely impact on the retail centre of our much loved market town and local village, community-run and farm shops of which the Leominster area boasts some excellent examples.

The Sainsbury complex would include an online shopping depot and fleet of vans.

I checked with the town council to be told it had not yet given any response; the plan was to be discussed on May 7.

As to public opinion, I am not aware of any independent survey having been carried out. The applicant’s claim of “overwhelming support” appears to be based on its own survey of a small number of people attending a promotional exhibition. I attended to find it deserted but for members of a slick PR team sent in to sell the plan to Leominster.

Leominster has good independent shops and three supermarkets. A massive new shopping hub on the edge of town will have to take market share from other businesses. The town centre, at least one of the other supermarkets, the independent traders and tourism are all vulnerable.

Herefordshire Council will make the decision and objections must reach it by May 16.

Prior to that, the town council will make its recommendation.

Townspeople and villagers may email the mayor and councillors via townclerk@leominstertown council.gov.uk or write to 17 West Street. It’s vital to quote the planning number 130616/F.

This process is the proper test of public opinion.

ANNE ADAMS, Luston, Leominster.