A decade-long battle appears to be over after Tesco claimed a High Court victory over rival Midlands Co-op in a bid to build a Birmingham superstore.
Midlands Co-op’s latest legal bid to halt the Tesco development in Stirchley was rejected, meaning that work can now begin.
The retail giants have been locked in a long-running battle over land deals, compulsory purchase orders and planning permission which has prevented development in the Stirchley centre.
But now Tesco claims it can now acquire the final parcels of land needed to build its multi-million pound store off Hazelwell Lane following a Judicial Review.
Corporate affairs manager Jonathan Simpson said: “We are keen to progress with the scheme as soon as we can and remain committed to bringing this vital investment for Stirchley forward. We are frustrated by the recent delays imposed on this scheme, which has received consent from the council.
“We know local people want to see the new store.”
Alternative plans put forward by Midlands Co-op, which has had a presence in Stirchley for more than 100 years, and developer Helical Retail were previously rejected by Birmingham City Council when it opted to select the Tesco plan.
But wrangles over compulsory purchase orders, including a house owned by the Co-op, held up the scheme.
Local Conservative councillors, who have backed the scheme, welcomed the decision in favour of Tesco.
Coun Timothy Huxtable (Bournville) said: “I welcome the much needed regeneration to Stirchley which the Tesco superstore, acting as an anchor site, will bring.
“As well as transforming several derelict sites within the heart of Stirchley back into economic use, the new superstore will create jobs for local residents, fund important environment enhancements to the vicinity and help in the creation of a vibrant urban village.”
His colleague Nigel Dawkins issued a plea to the Co-op to stop its legal action.
He said: “I would ask the Midlands Co-operative to now finally accept the situation, welcome the inevitable competition and cease their endless attempts to prevent the regeneration of Stirchley.”
However, Midlands Co-operative Society has revealed that it is set to issue a further challenge in a bid to overturn the court decision.
A spokeswoman said: “The Society can confirm that it was disappointed with the outcome of the recent Judicial Review and has therefore made the decision to submit leave to appeal and awaits further developments.”
