COLCHESTER MP Bob Russell has expressed concerns over landscaping near a new supermarket.

Waitrose is developing a new shop in St Andrew’s Avenue, at the site of the former Glyn Webb building.

As part of the planning consent given by Colchester Council, it has to plant trees and landscape the area, but Bob Russell said many of the trees planted there already look like they are dying.

He said: “Because of the planning requirement, they have planted some semi-mature trees around the site.

“It seems no one has bothered to water them because they look like they’re dead or dying.

“I’m no expert, but semi-mature trees would need a lot of watering.

“It’s difficult at this time of year because it’s so warm, but you would think they could have given them some tender loving care.”

No one from the supermarket chain was available to comment on the landscaping problems.

Waitrose were given permission for the supermarket in July last year and the scheme will bring 150 jobs to the town.

In April, nearby residents began to complain after builders working on the store removed shrubs and hedges which were screening the site.

Council officers said the site was supposed to have some landscaping done, with trees being planted to improve the look of the site.

The Waitrose store is due to open later in the year.