RESIDENTS are claiming victory after plans for another Tesco Express in Colchester were rejected.

More than 700 signatures were collected on a petition opposing the proposed store on the site of Cherry Tree Garage in Mersea Road.

Residents had raised concerns about the extra traffic and antisocial behaviour the shop would generate.

Ward councillor Dave Harris (Lab, Berechurch) described the scheme’s rejection by Colchester Council as “superb news”.

“All the points raised by local people about this not being the right place for a supermarket were recognised and agreed with by the planning officers,” he said.

The planning officers rejected the application because it went against policy.

Tesco had proposed building seven two-bed flats in a three-storey block and six two bed houses alongside the shop.

A Tesco spokesman said: “We are disappointed and will be reviewing our options.”