A MAIN road running through Gerrards Cross will undergo major redevelopment when Tesco begins work on its new store.

Packhorse Road will have a crossroads installed with traffic lights on the junction with Station Approach and its narrow railway bridge will be removed.

Corporate affairs manager for Tesco Michael Kissman said they would setting up a helpline for residents' concerns, and details will announced shortly.

"We will be carrying out signal and junction improvements. It will certainly improve the access to the store and it will improve access for pedestrians. If you walk along that bridge and someone is walking towards you with a pushchair, you have to step on to the road.

"Details of the helpline will be circulated to local residents when the plans are approved by Network Rail."

He also said that Tesco had applied to extend its planning permission with Buckinghamshire County Council to allow the construction company to bring in building materials by rail.

He said: "We expect it will save 10,000 lorry movements.

"We will also be ensuring the site is kept in good order by asking the construction company to wash the wheels of any lorries leaving the site.

Preparatory work on the site, including removing the store's steel frame is planned for February 2008 although the company may begin as early as this autumn, if its detailed design plans are approved by Network Rail.

A decision on the rail access application is expected on September 11.