It might well be that as many people want supermarkets in their towns as don't. But one thing is sure, only people who do not mind how many times it has flown round the world before it gets to them, as long as it's cheap, would want Tesco.

In a survey of supermarkets in November 2012 Tesco came bottom in the popularity stakes. That was before the discovery of horsemeat in various Tesco food products.

With very little attempt at public consultation, Tesco fully intends to install possibly the ugliest building in one of the most obvious place in town, complete with free parking, hot on the heels of Coleford's local traders who have been fleeing the costs of the car parking management scheme.

Tesco's provision of free parking to customers will give them an unfair advantage, and could cost the town their precious local businesses, some of whom have been there for generations.

No visiting tourist hoping to discover the history of the beautiful 800 year-plus market town will be spared: the first thing they will see is the icon of 21st-century progress: a large neon Tesco sign.

The impact of the added light and noise pollution 24-hours a day seven days a week on the local residents living opposite, some of which are elderly and disabled, has not been properly assessed.

The new development at the same time promises an upsurge in trading within Coleford, whilst having zero negative impact on existing traffic levels, which stretches most people's powers of imagination.

If you care about any of the above issues please register your concerns by writing to the planning inspectorate at teamp2@ pins.gsi.gov.uk by Friday March 22, and turn up at the appeal inquiry, on June 5/6 at the Forest of Dean District Council. Check with the council for changes of venue or dates.

– Name and address supplied.