This morning I met with Simon Petar, Corporate Affairs representative from Tesco, and Nicola Blackwood MP, to discuss recent and future developments in the Vale. The first topic of discussion was the future of the Faringdon supermarket. I am pleased to say that it has been confirmed to me that they intend to start work towards the end of 2013 and would hope to have the store open for the summer of 2014. I will also be having ongoing discussions with Tesco over contributions that they be able to make to local schemes. We also discussed smaller future developments across the Vale, and especially the recent spate of pubs being converted to Tesco Express in Abingdon. It is clear that the announcement made by the Chief Executive of Tesco, Philip Clarke is likely to lead to more smaller branch, rather than the focus on large stores. There are encouraging signs that the Tesco Extra in Abingdon will be one of the stores to see improvements. I will continue to meet with Tesco and indeed other large retailers who have such a large impact on our communities. A close dialogue is necessary and I was pleased to receive some assurances that communication with improve between Tesco and the local community.
