There is no doubt that the relatively recent trend for big supermarket chains to to open small “express” stores can often be a valuable addition to local communities, sometimes replacing the long-gone “open all hours” corner shops that used to provide for residents.

However, opening such stores is not always in the best interests of those communities, and they can draw much-needed trade away from existing traditional shops such as butchers and bakeries.

Those communities themselves are usually the best judge of whether they require such a new retailer. If they do welcome the big supermarkets with open arms, all well and good. In the case of the people of Idle, they resolutely decided they didn’t want Tesco to open one of their express stores in the community.

It may seem that the supermarket giants are unstoppable and if they decide to open a store then they will. But there is a planning process in this country which must be adhered to, and one of the considerations made when granting or refusing an application of this nature is whether it is actually in the best interests of the local people.

Full marks, then, to Bradford Council for listening to the concerns of the residents of Idle and refusing permission for Tesco to open their store in the village, which is already well-served by established, locally-run businesses.

Tesco should respect the decision, which was made based upon local feeling, and instead look to other communities who might well require the kind of service they offer, rather than getting involved in any lengthy and costly appeal against the Council’s ruling.