Tesco are planning to turn a defunct pub into a Tesco Express to the annoyance of some residents who question whether it is needed in Ewell.

This week Tesco submitted a planning application to change the ‘signs and facade’ of the Kingfisher Pub in Ruxley Lane at the junction with Gatley Avenue.

The plans have emerged as budget chain Aldi pushes ahead with its revamped plans to open a store on Kingston Road near the junction with Ruxley Lane.

Jacqueline Healy, of Gatley Avenue, who has received a leaflet from Tesco, said the area already has a McColls, Londis, a Co-op and newsagents plus plans for an Aldi and a mooted Sainsbury’s development.

Ms Healy by phone said: "How many shops do we need? These Tesco convenience stores are not cheap. Tesco will move in and put someone else out of business then there’s another empty shop at the top of the road."

In a letter to the paper she said: "All I can see Tesco offering me is traffic congestion, more inconsiderate parking and an increase in discarded wrapping."

An Epsom Council spokesman said Tesco submitted a planning application for ‘signage and facade changes’ earlier this week.

A Tesco spokeswoman said: "We wrote to residents a couple of weeks ago to say we want to open a Tesco Express store."

What do you think about plans for a Tesco Express in Ewell?

Contact the news desk on 020 8722 6337 or email alice.foster@london.newsquest.co.uk