TRADERS in Gorse Hill say they will be dealt a hammer blow if Tesco is finally allowed to expand its Ocotal Way store.

They feel there is a sense of inevitability about the application, before Swindon planners for the third time on Tuesday night, being approved.

Tesco wants to increase the store by 15,000 sq ft. Planning officers are recommending approval.

If it is, the store will provide an injection of cash to improve shop fronts in Gorse Hill the main area affected by an expansion while contributing to the cost of other infrastructure improvements.

Former planning committee chairman Maurice Fanning (Lab, Gorse Hill and Pinehurst) said: "I was vehemently against the last application, but the blow has been softened by the fact that Tesco could help refurbish surrounding shopping areas. There is a sense of inevitability about an increase in the size of the store.

"I certainly had grave fears last year. I am happier now, but will be fighting for the maximum amount we can get for Gorse Hill."

Traders there have been fighting a campaign to scrap a controversial set of four-way traffic lights since December 2002. They claim it results in long tailbacks.

Kate Hurst, who works at George Lesley Flowers in Cricklade Road, said: "I think they are going to just keep submitting this application until they beat us down. We are all small businesses here and although we're the backbone of England, we are thought so little of."

Tesco spokesman, Richard Anderson, said: "The application is for a relatively modest 15,000 sq ft extension.

"The anticipated effect on Gorse Hill traders has been shown by research to be minimal. Nevertheless, we do acknowledge the concerns and are advocating a £30,000 contribution. In addition, we would contribute around £15,000 to improve the Shrivenham Road junction and a considerably greater sum, not yet finalised, towards an improved local bus service."

Giles Sheldrick