After months of speculation, we can now reveal what's in store for the future of a prominent shop in High Street, Tenby.

The former Woolworths store is to be reopened as a Tesco Express, it was revealed this week.

At a meeting with local AM Angela Burns and Conservative Parliamentary candidate Simon Hart on Monday, Tesco confirmed that they had taken over the store and would be opening one of their smaller shops there.

"This is excellent news as it's a key location in the centre of Tenby which looks a real eyesore standing empty," said Mrs. Burns.

"A small supermarket right in the town centre will be convenient for both visitors and locals alike," added Mr. Hart.

The politicians also spoke to the supermarket's head of corporate affairs for Wales about plans for a Tesco superstore at New Hedges.

"From my investigations, I have discovered that the council is looking into developing the site and that Tesco has said it is interested if the required permissions are granted," said Mrs. Burns.

Tesco says it would like to build a 30,000-square-foot out-of-town superstore on the Red House site which would employ 200 people.

However, many local traders are opposed to the idea and saw off a similar bid to develop the land a few years ago.

Mrs. Burns has now set up an informal business group made up of Tenby traders which already has about 50 members.

"I met this group on Friday and they are extremely concerned about this proposed development so I am fully aware of the strength of feeling on this issue," said Mrs. Burns.

"There are some very serious concerns about the proposals, however we cannot prejudge Tesco until we know what the council intends to do with the land.

"Tesco has gone to great pains to assure us that if the council presses ahead with the development then they will conduct a full public meeting and consultation on any plans they have."

Mr. Hart added: "Angela and I have been given assurances by Tesco that any proposals for the site will only come forward after a public consultation.

"I appreciate the strength of feeling on both sides of the argument and I hope that this issue can continue to be debated in an open and honest manner."