THE WAY is clear for Asda to develop a superstore in Lydney after rival Tesco was refused permission to take its battle further by the Supreme Court.

After consideration the court ordered that permission to appeal be refused because the application by Tesco did not raise an arguable point of law.

The Forest of Dean District Council originally granted planning permission for the Asda supermarket and related developments on March 11 2014. 

The decision to grant permission was then challenged by Tesco but the council’s original planning decision was upheld in both the High Court and Court of Appeal.

The Supreme Court decision will also have positive implications for JD Norman, Lydney’s largest employer.

A new finishing shop and offices for JD Norman will be constructed ahead of a 3,827 square metre retail store with associated car parking, several employment units and a petrol station on land south of Cambourne Place, Lydney. 

Cllr Patrick Molyneux, (Con, Woolaston and Hewelsfied), the leader of the district council and Cabinet member for governance, regeneration and planning policy said: “This is great news for the town and no doubt will be welcomed by residents across the district.  Not only does this mean additional consumer choice for the community but the new superstore will also assist in securing local jobs at JD Norman.”