The Leader of Douglas Borough Council, Councillor David Christian, is appealing to Douglas ratepayers to express their views regarding the expansion plans submitted by Tesco for its Lake Road store.

Councillor Christian said, "Tesco’s proposed scheme will undoubtedly impact on the future of retailing in Douglas and the Isle of Man as a whole.

"The Council is fully committed to supporting the regeneration of Douglas into a vibrant retail centre offering wide customer choice.

"However, given the challenging economic times ahead our nation faces, concerns have been expressed that these expansion plans could compromise the viability of some businesses in the Island.

"It is against this background that I am urging Douglas ratepayers to contact their local Councillor in writing to express their views.  We would also like to hear from businesses that feel they may be adversely affected by these expansion plans.

"The Council is also seeking Members’ views, to which end we shall be holding a Special Meeting to discuss what we  consider to be a matter of national importance."

Ratepayers are invited to express their views in writing to their Councillor c/o Douglas Town Hall, Ridgeway Street, Douglas IM99 1AD.

Councillors’ contact details can be found here.