A NEW Tesco is to open at the former Woolworths site on Wanstead High Street, the Guardian can reveal.

Last week, we reported rumours that the supermarket giant had expressed an interested in the vacant premises of the former Woolworths branch on the busy shopping street.

Some shopkeepers on the High Street had expressed fears that they could go out of business if the chain moved in.

And now the Guardian has discovered that the company has definitely taken on the lease of the site, and plans to open a Tesco Express branch in the next few months.

But Tesco's plans may be subject to planning permission first from Redbridge Council.

Nish Pau, manager of Londis on Wanstead High Street said he was devastated by the news.

"I've worked here for 26 years and this is the worse news about the High Street I've ever heard," he said.

"Wanstead High Street is full of businesses who have been here a long time. It's never really changed much, Wanstead has always managed to maintain a village feel to it, but that's going to change.

"Tesco isn't a business it's a brand."

He added: "This will kill off small traders. I don't know if there's any way of stopping of it but if there is we will try it.

"I'm sure quite a lot of Wanstead doesn't want it."

Stephen Alsop, manager of independent butcher's AG Dennis, said: “I don’t think anybody is happy about it.

“It just doesn’t suit the High Street. Woolworths was a nice little shop everybody liked it, it’s such a pity it’s gone.

“It’s going to get harder for independent traders like us. Hopefully the local people will support us.

“And it’s going to affect parking as well. It’s terrible enough as it is but more people are going to want to park around here and my customers won’t be able to.”

A spokeswoman for Tesco said: "We have just taken over the building and will convert the store which may involve some minor works.

"Subject to any planning permission needed, we hope to open the Tesco Express store late this spring.

"We feel that a Tesco Express will be a positive addition to Wanstead and we look forward to opening and serving our customers in the future."

"Tesco Express stores are smaller than our supermarkets, usually about the size of a tennis court.

"A Tesco Express is designed to bring competitive prices, improved services and better ranges, including more fresh products to a neighbourhood.

"They are normally conveniently located close to people's homes and generally in High Streets giving local residents who want to walk or cycle to shop, access to really good daily shopping and a wider range of goods."

She added: "Tesco Express stores bring a variety of products to a neighbourhood, including the best in convenience foods - fresh produce, chilled foods and other groceries, as well as snacks and ready meals, and a range of soft drinks, beer, wines and spirits, and other useful items.

"They sell a diverse range of products, from the luxury of the Finest range to the best of the Healthy Eating and Organic ranges.

"Alongside a handy selection of everyday staples such as bread, milk and eggs."

Meanwhile in South Woodford, it has been suggested that clothing chain Primark might open a branch at the former Woolworths shop on George Lane.

However Primark have so far refused to comment on the claims.

What do you think about the prospect of Tesco moving in to Wanstead? We'd love to hear from you. Contact the newsdesk on 8498 3437 or email dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk