RESIDENTS are demanding a public meeting to discuss proposals for a supermarket in their town - even though no plans have been submitted.

Grocery giant Tesco has been approached by developers Hunter's Walk, who own the land behind the Metflex factory, in Queen Street, Great Harwood, about the possibility of building a store on the site.

Tesco indicated an interest and held an exhibition in February to discuss its plans with local residents. Over 100 attended and were given the chance to air their views on the potential scheme.

As yet no formal plans for a store have been submitted to Hyndburn Council. But residents have now called for a public meeting to be held so that they can raise objections with the council in advance.

Speaking at a Great Harwood area council meeting, one local resident said: "This is a matter of great significance. The town should be made aware of what is happening and then be given the chance to have its say."

Councillors pointed out that as no plans had been received, such a meeting could not be held.

Coun David Mason, Overton ward, said: "You are challenging something that hasn't been committed to paper."

Coun Lynn Wilson, Netherton ward, added: "At the moment this store is pure conjecture; it is like an urban myth."

It was also pointed out that all objections to any potential scheme would have to be officially submitted to the planning committee - views given at a public meeting could not be considered.

A spokesperson for Tesco admitted that the company was looking into the possibility of setting up store in Great Harwood. He added: "We gave out questionnaires at the public exhibition and 92 per cent of those who filled them in said they were in favour of the store.

"We hope to put a planning application in in the next few weeks."