DEMOLISHING a derelict pub and building a new Tesco and flats will benefit the surrounding area, according to a ward councillor and residents who live near by.

The former Essex Arms pub building, at 82-84 Forest Road, Walthamstow, is currently boarded up, with weeds growing through the concrete of its former car park.

The pub closed in 2007 and Tesco has since bought the site.

The supermarket giant has submitted plans to erect a part four-storey building containing a Tesco Express supermarket and 19 flats.

Cllr James O'Rourke told the Guardian that the store will help the elderly residents of Nicholson Court, who do not have many supermarkets nearby.

He also said commuters getting off the Tube at Blackhorse Road station will find it more convenient.

Cllr O'Rourke said: “Anything is better than the disused building we have there now.

“The store will be convenient for many people and the development also has housing, which is much-needed.”

The majority of residents asked told the Guardian they welcomed the devlopment.

Pam Pegg, 68, of Forest Road, said: “The store will be handy for me if I forget something from my weekly shop.

“I am a bit concerned about the flats, anti-social behaviour might increase, but overall I am in favour.

Thelma Bascy, 78, also of Forest Road said: “I am not young, so having a store on my doorstep will be really convenient, I just hope there is not too much noise.

The Blackhorse Action Group (BAG), the residents' association for the area, has yet to issue a response to the application and has asked for people to submit their views to its website.

Views on the BAG website are mixed, but most are in favour.

But some residents are concerned that squatters have recently moved into the building.

Bedding, beer cans and other debris can be seen outside and a sign saying Beware of the Dogs has now been erected.

The application is expected to come before councillors in the next three months.

The Guardian is awaiting a response from Tesco.

What do you think? Do you want to see a Tesco on the site? Leave a comment below.