Liz Blackman said: "I am not persuaded there is a need for another store of its type and I am concerned about the impact it could have on existing shopping centres."

Mike Perry, secretary of Ilkeston Chamber of Trade said his group has objected to the planning application submitted to the borough council.

"We believe that the proposed store and retail units of this size on the edge of town will force other shops in Sandiacre and Stapleford to close.

"This was our experience when a Tesco store was opened on the edge of Ilkeston.

"We also believe that the effect of the development on traffic flows has been understated - particularly given its proximity to the canal bridge and junction 25 of the M1.

"There are plenty of Tesco stores in this area and we would like to see Sandiacre and Stapleford retain some individual character."

Ian Viles, chief executive of Erewash Partnership said he was "very concerned that the need for a superstore in Sandiacre is not proven and such a development will have a significant negative impact - leading to a loss of businesses and jobs in the area".

The group, A Future for Sandiacre, has submitted 26 questions they would like Tesco to answer about the proposal for an 'eco-store' on vacant land off Station Road.

A consultation event is being held at 7pm tomorrow (Wednesday January 20) at the Novotel, Bostocks Lane, Sandiacre during which the group will ask its questions of Tesco representatives.