AN extension to Heanor's Tesco has been granted despite fears that it could damage the business of smaller shops in the town.

The supermarket is about 23,500 sq ft and will be extended by about 10,900 sq ft now that Amber Valley Borough Council has granted planning permission.

Tesco previously told the Derby Telegraph that "an element of white goods" would be sold at the High Street store.

It promised to work to ensure Heanor had a "thriving town centre" by advertising other shops in-store, improving pedestrian links between the store and the centre and improving the centre's appearance.

But Katherine Lockley, manager of electrical store Logic, said she feared the extension would hurt her business.

She said the Godfrey Street store would have to rely on its loyal customers. Mrs Lockley said: "Being realistic, I think we will have problems. But we have happy customers and a personal service and hopefully that will mean people keep coming back."

Councillor Bob Moon, who represents Heanor and Loscoe, said Tesco had already had a noticeable effect on the town with several stores closing. He said: "The argument that the effect of Tesco on Heanor has already passed is a spurious one.

"It is going to affect all those traders who sell goods which will be in the extension."

A Tesco spokesman said work would start this year. He said: "We are pleased this has been passed so we can offer the best service to customers."