Politicians joined residents at a packed-out Fraser Centre on Thursday after which MSP Gil Paterson pointed out that "not one person" spoke in favour of the plans.

Proposals call for the demolition of the existing store, its replacement with a two-storey car park and the construction of a new two-storey superstore on the present car park site — with walkways linking the two buildings.

Objectors say the conservation character of Milngavie would be adversely affected if the store was sited up on the main road rather than in the basin of the Mill.

Milngavie resident Eve Gilmore, who has set up a campaign of opposition, organised the meeting.

Eve believes the reaction of those who attended vindicates her view that there is strong opposition to the plans which have been described as 'grotesque'.

A long standing Tesco shopper, Eve hopes bosses can be persuaded to scrap the new proposals and instead upgrade the existing store.

MP Jo Swinson addressed the meeting and later told the Herald: "Concern was expressed over the impact the development would have on local traders, the River Allander and wildlife with most people feeling the current store is adequate for the needs of the community.

"My recent survey showed that Milngavie residents are overwhelmingly opposed to the development and it is important that Tesco and the council listen to what local people are telling them."

The sentiment was shared by MSP Des McNulty who said: "I hope the council will not rush into making a decision but will allow residents the opportunity to express their views.

"Tesco believe the current store doesn't adequately serve the needs of the area, but I think the new store will be larger than we require and precinct businesses could be put at risk.

"I will work alongside the community on this and would hope that Tesco would be receptive and will revise their plans to take account of local opinion."

MSP Gil Paterson complimented Eve for the organisation of a very well structured meeting and told the Herald: "The proposals are not right for Milngavie and from beginning to end I heard not one person speak in favour of the proposals.

"A vibrant community relies on local businesses and in my view the proposals leave no room for anyone else to survive.

"If retailers go everyone is affected — it's not just the businsses themselves that would suffer, but those who serve them like plumbers, joiners and other tradesmen who usually tend to be local."

It has been suggested that a public meeting should now be held with representatives from Tesco and planning officials and politicians back that move.

A Tesco spokesman said: "We are proud to serve the Milngavie community and want to improve the shopping experience we can provide.

"Over the last year we have consulted with the local community, altering our plans in line with their comments and suggestions.

"Our proposals would be a major investment in Milngavie, bringing increased choice and creating 250 local jobs."

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