Much has been made of the 'eco friendly' design of the building proposed.

It almost appears that this was 'highlighted' more than anything else from the beginning to gain acceptance and reduce any opposition of the planning application. Surely any new building should be expected to be 'eco friendly' these days?

If Tesco are so adamant that they can work with local businesses then let's hear some real life examples of where this has happened elsewhere in Scotland and not resulted in the High Street becoming a row of empty shops.

The Piper report of May 29 says: "Despite the concerns from local business owners, the Tesco representatives feel that the majority of residents in Banchory want to see their planning application get the green light."

Of course people want to pay less for everything despite the fact that locally grown and produced food is of much better quality. It might be slightly more expensive but we should support local growers and producers.

In April, 2007 Tesco reported profits of over £2.5 billion. Local farmers and growers, I am sure, would agree that much of the rise in profits has been at their expense with these supermarket giants always looking to pay less and less. Farmers costs however, such as fertiliser and fuel, continue to rise year on year. Is it any wonder that many are going out of business?

There is only one thing which drives the likes of Tesco and that is profit and satisfying their large corporate shareholders, most of whom probably have no idea where Banchory is, or indeed care.

If people really think that Tesco give two hoots if their store results in every shop in the High Street closing down then I can't believe how naïve people are.

So come on, think about the effects on the town, your friends relatives and neighbours who run the High Street businesses and grow and produce food locally - not just your own wallets

Yours etc
P Smith
Dinnet
Aboyne