A PUBLIC inquiry is to be held into the controversial Tesco development in Partick.

A PUBLIC inquiry is to be held into the controversial Tesco development in Partick.

The Scottish Government had to order it after the supermarket giant lodged an appeal because of the length of time Glasgow City Council is taking to make up its mind about its plans.

Tesco wants to build a 7500sq m superstore, 915 flats and a 600-space underground car park in the Beith Street area of Partick.

Opponents have dubbed the development Tesco Town'.

But because of constant delays over the application Tesco went over the head of the council to the government.

A Tesco spokesman said: "Our application is still before the city council but we have appealed on the grounds of non-determination of the application.

"By virtue of submitting the appeal, we're asking for a public inquiry.

"We're still in talks with the council and we hope a resolution can be reached before it goes to the public inquiry but that process is running separately."

A pre-inquiry meeting, chaired by an independent reporter appointed by the government, has been set for January 8.

The reporter will fix a date for the public inquiry after hearing from Tesco, the council and objectors.

Partick West councillor Kenny McLean, a member of the Stop Tesco Owning Partick campaign, welcomed an inquiry.

He said: "The area around Dumbarton Road is already very congested with traffic and the scale of this would have a serious impact by bringing in more cars and lorries.

"The site should be used for what this community needs - more affordable family homes with riverside access."

SNP MSP Sandra White, who has raised the issue at Holyrood and intends to speak at the inquiry, said: "I think it's wonderful they're having a public inquiry.

"This will give people a chance to have a voice because they certainly weren't heard in Tesco's so-called consultation.

"Once the independent reporter has heard all the evidence against the development, I'm sure that justice will be done.

"This huge development is to the detriment of Partick. There has been no environmental impact study carried out by the council.

"I don't think we need a huge Tesco in the area.

"The land could be used better for the local community."

At least 1000 letters of objection have been sent to the council and Parliament has received more than 400 e-petitions.

City council officials declined to comment.