As reported, Sainsbury's want to build a 20,000 sq ft store behind the Louth Co-op on Eve Street. More than 200 jobs would be created if given the go ahead.

Around 40 people attended the meeting to air their views on the super store coming to the town.

Many raised concerns over the loss of Kiln Lane long stay car park which would be sold by East Lindsey District Council if the planning application is approved.

Flood victims of 2007 reiterated their fears the store would increase the risk of flooding upstream of the store. Whilst others said there would be an increased amount of traffic which would threaten the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

Jennie Dunbar of Hawthorne Avenue, Louth, said: "The site is entirely unsuitable. We are a thriving market town and we already have a Morrison's and Co-op, we don't need another, especially one in the wrong place".

But town councillors Andrew Leonard and David Wing backed the proposal.
Coun Leonard said: "If we don't accept it, it is going to stifle Louth and instead of 'Keeping Louth Special' we are keeping Louth in the dark ages. That is why I came here tonight, to play the big bad wolf. I want to see it go ahead".

He also warned if the store does not go ahead, he believed Louth Cattle Market would be the next site to home a supermarket because ELDC would be more inclined to sell it.

He added: "ELDC are interested in cash. If this doesn't go through the Cattle Market will go through".

Louth Town Council opposed the development at a public meeting last month on grounds of traffic flow, flood risk and the loss of the Kiln Lane car park.

Mayor Keith Sharp said: "There are certainly a great amount of concerns and it is something that has got to be looked at. It is important for people to air their concerns, they are not trivial. It is something we have got to get right".

Do you think the proposal should be approved? Email faye.preston@jpress.co.uk.