MHK: Tesco is 'big name and big problem' for south

Speaking to 3FM, the MHK for the town said he feared the impact it could have on local traders.

He said Tesco was both a "big name and a big problem” and the benefits the company claims to be bringing to the area need to be carefully examined.

On Wednesday the supermarket giant said it will be opening a new express convenience store in the Callow’s Yard site in the centre of the town.

However, on Thursday, rival Shoprite released a statement saying it will be developing a new service in Ballasalla.

The chief executive of the Manx supermarket said the company was carefully assessing it’s southern service and plans to form a bigger presence in the south.