Victoria NichollsA controversial bid by Tesco to build a store in Halesworth has been rejected.The decision was made on several grounds, including that it would have a harmful impact on the retail character of the town centre, and that it would be out of scale with the catchment area.Victoria Nicholls

A controversial bid by Tesco to build a store in Halesworth has been rejected.

The decision was made on several grounds, including that it would have a harmful impact on the retail character of the town centre, and that it would be out of scale with the catchment area.

The decision, made by an inspector from the Planning Inspectorate following a public inquiry, emerged today.

Tesco wanted to build a store off Angel Link, a scheme which was opposed by Anglia Co-op and Waveney District Council.

The decision will also be welcomed by opposition group Save Halesworth, whose members voiced concerns about the potential effects on independent traders in the town centre.