Shoppers check out Tesco’s Old Kent Road plans

Tesco says that of those who completed a feedback form, 86 per cent felt that the proposals were progressing in the right direction.

"We are delighted with the response from local residents," says James Wiggam, Tesco's corporate affairs manager.

"Local people were very enthusiastic. They want a larger store offering extended ranges and think the idea of building homes above the store is an excellent way of making better use of the site.

"Residents have also provided us with a range of ideas for how we can improve the immediate area around the store, and are particularly keen for the redevelopment to contribute towards improving Old Kent Road and Burgess Park.

"The feedback will be taken on board and we will continue to work with the councillors and officers before we launch our planning application."

Tesco announced its intention to redevelop the sprawling Old Kent Road site earlier this month. The emerging proposals include the replacement of the existing Tesco store with a new, larger food store offering a wider range of goods.

The scheme would create around 320 new homes including a mix of private, key worker and social rented housing.

A note of caution about the development has been sounded by Southwark's executive member for regeneration, Cllr Richard Thomas, who points out that despite representations from Tesco the new Southwark Plan does not designate the Old Kent Road area for an expansion of retail provision.

Cllr Thomas has also voiced concerns about the environmental and congestion implications of the large number of car parking spaces proposed below the new store.

Tesco will now be reviewing the feedback they have received and updating their plans.

They hope to submit a planning application in the next few months.