West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has this week held talks with a public affairs representative of Tesco in a meeting in Tenbury Wells. The MP wrote to the company’s new chief executive to ask for an update on the company’s plans to build a store on the old cattle market, which were given planning permission years ago. Harriett also asked the company to show goodwill by supporting the Tenbury Transport Trust which was promised cash as part of the planning consent. Harriett took Tesco’s Simon Petar from the company’s Cheshunt HQ on a walking tour of the town and the pair discussed plans for improving the site and constructing the continuation of flood defences alongside the riverside walk. Harriett commented: “I contacted the company's new CEO during the summer to ask for news on the Tenbury store plans and he wrote to confirm that the company was conducting a review of all of its new stores, which is due to report back later this month. “However, since then, the company has experienced a number of serious business issues and the CEO is overseeing a review of the whole business. “I had some constructive discussions with Simon last week and raised a number of issues directly with him. “I have been asked them for their next steps and timetable for a site which is becoming a dangerous eyesore in the gateway to the town. “I raised the funding issues faced by Tenbury Transport Trust which is depending on cash from the company. “This money would not be available until the store is actually open so I have urged the company to find alternative ways of supporting this important community resource. “I have also urged the company to help with the permanent flood defences at the site to protect their property and to advance discussions with the Tenbury museum over their plans to move into the old fire station.” Tesco’s Simon Petar added: “It was a pleasure to meet and discuss the proposed Tenbury Wells store with Harriett. A number of important areas were discussed and I will keep both Harriett and the rest of the community updated on our plans.” Photo: Tesco’s Simon Petar and Harriett Baldwin MP discuss the proposed new superstore at the town's old cattle market.