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Supermarkets consider new stores for Stornoway    25/7/10

Plans to build a new Tesco store on Lewis have become snarled up in a pre-planning hitch it is believed. The supermarket giant is remaining coy on its future plans on developing shopping opportunities for islanders.

However, it is understood to be searching for a new site in around the outskirts of Stornoway to erect a larger store.

Hebrides News understands that Tesco have a preferred location not too far out of town on the Lochs Road which would allow an expanded floor sales area - for non-food goods, particularly clothing and household items - as well as plenty of car parking.

Any delay over building a new store may give a boost to rivals Lidl in its interest to set up a base in Stornoway.

The budget supermarket chain sent up agents to the town recently for the first time. They were scouting around the area  for possible sites for a new store.

The firm had no previous interest in expanding its business in Stornoway. However, it is now believed to be exploring its options. Lidl’s proposal is likely to involve constructing a new-build shop rather than converting existing premises.

Its plans are at an very early stage and may take a knock if Tesco does decides to build a bigger store.