SUPERMARKET giant Tesco has agreed to help pay for a pedestrian crossing outside its latest Brentwood store.
The firm has said it would be willing to "make a financial contribution" towards the construction of a crossing outside the Tesco Express store it will be opening in Warley Hill.
The news is a boost for campaigners who say a crossing is needed to make the shop accessible to the 42 elderly and disabled residents who live at the nearby Beach Spinney retirement complex in Lorne Road.
The campaign was started by Liberal Democrat county councillor David Kendall after Tesco revealed it would be converting the former Warley Tavern into the town's fourth Express shop.
The supermarket's plans for the pub have divided opinion since they were first revealed in the Gazette on January 9.
Beach Spinney residents say the current volume of traffic on Warley Hill already makes it difficult for them to cross the road.
The new Tesco store would be around 20 metres away, although to access the nearest crossing, opposite Pastoral Way, residents would need to walk about eight times that distance.
Mr Kendall, who represents Brentwood South, has already briefed officers at Essex County Council's Highways Department regarding the need for a crossing and they have agreed to undertake engineering and speed survey work shortly.
Mr Kendall said this week: "I am very pleased that Tesco have confirmed to me that they will make a financial contribution towards the cost of a crossing because it will greatly increase the chances of it happening.
"I believe that a crossing near the store will be vital for customers that want to cross the busy road and I am determined to do all I can to try and make it happen.
"I know that some residents have genuine concerns about Tesco's opening at this location but as it is going to definitely happen I believe we need to make the most of this opportunity and ensure as safe an environment as possible for local residents."
An e-mail from Tesco to Mr Kendall said: "We would be willing to make a contribution towards the cost of a pedestrian crossing and our highways consultant will contact you."
