RESIDENTS have lost their battle against corporate giant Tesco last night as councillors approved a new Express store in South Hampstead. Despite almost 70 letters of objection, the planning application was approved and the store will replace the former Br

RESIDENTS have lost their battle against corporate giant Tesco last night as councillors approved a new Express store in South Hampstea.

Despite almost 70 letters of objection, the planning application was approved and the store will replace the former Britannia pub in Belsize Road.

"I am very disappointed with the decision because the council did not consider us one bit," said Belsize Road resident Philip Rosenfeld.

"We think it is disgusting, not one of them voted in our favour."

The locals are angry at likely road problems with delivery lorries, noise and the possibility of increased crime around the cashpoint. Traders also fear they will be hit in the pocket.

The new store takes the tally of Tescos to 13 within a two-mile radius, including outlets in England's Lane, Heath Street and St John's Wood. Another one will soon open in West Hampstead as well.

Swiss Cottage councillor Don Williams spoke on behalf of the residents at the Town Hall meeting. He said: "We have been following this since it started a year ago. Most of the people here are against this Tesco for reasons of litter, loading, lorries, traffic and the ATM attracting undesirables.

"I am quite disappointed with the result. Residents have been calling me regularly about this since the application was lodged. Some of the residents gave up a long time ago but some wanted to fight so it is disappointing now.