AFTER a glimmer of hope that part of their town could be saved from an unwanted supermarket, Northwood people have taken a fresh blow.

Sainsbury’s has confirmed it is still working with Transport for London (TfL), the owners of the land in Station Approach where the store could be built, despite TfL announcing this month that it is adjusting its plans to bring them in line with the local campaign against the development.

On January 9, TfL’s director of commercial development, Graeme Craig, wrote to Nick Hurd, (pictured) Conservative MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner promising to come up with a new plan more suited to the needs of the town following a huge campaign to stop the development.

Mr Craig said TfL has listened to and taken on board people’s concerns but the exact detail of the ‘adjustment’ is not yet known.

When the letter was received on January 9, Mr Hurd and members of campaign group Save Our Northwood (SON) told of their delight that it seemed they were finally being listened to.

Mr Hurd said he was delighted TfL had ‘heard the voice of Northwood’ and the campaign had got the attention of senior decision makers.

But last week, Sainsbury’s confirmed it remained committed to building a supermarket on the station site.

“Our plans have not been dropped and we will continue to work with TfL and the developer,” said a spokesman.

“We are continuing to work closely with TfL on the development plans for Northwood.

“We remain committed to building a supermarket on the station site that would be suitable to meet the needs of the local community.”

Tony Ellis, chairman of SON, said he has written to Mr Hurd and Mr Craig for clarification.

“Sainsbury’s’ statement conflicts with the contents of TfL’s letter,” he said.

“The way they have treated their Northwood tenants is scandalous.

“Therefore, they have an enormous trust deficit with us that is going to take a very long time to overcome.”

Mr Hurd said he has pressed TfL on the need to try to keep some of the independent shops in Station Approach, and to treat all tenants fairly. He said TfL had agreed with his stance.

A pre-consultation meeting between Mr Craig, SON and councillors will be held next month.