SIMPSON'S PLEA TO 'END THE BITTERNESS'

David Simpson, who was re-elected by 14,000 voters across the constituency in last week's General Election, said there needs to be a better "working relationship" between representatives at Bridgewater Park and the local Chamber of Commerce.

Refusing to be drawn on his personal opinion on whether a Tesco superstore near the Outlet would be good for Banbridge, the DUP man said he can see both sides to the increasingly heated argument.

"In my position as MP, of course I welcome investment into the constituency," he told the Leader.

"But I think there is a balance to be struck in relation to the size of shopping centres or malls.

"You can't build one round every corner."

Since the developers at Bridgewater had their planning application to build a Tesco Extra rejected by the Environment Minister Edwin Poots late last year, public pressure has mounted for the decision to be reversed.

Mr Simpson, who said the need for a bus station in the town as well as better car parking facilities are major issues in the area, admitted that Tesco's presence at Bridgewater was one of the biggest talking points on the doorsteps during his election campaign.

"I am aware that there have been a number of petitions drawn up to garner support," he said.

"Numerous people mentioned to me the issue of Tesco and the issue regarding a lack of investment in the town."

The only way forward is further talks between town traders and the developers, according to the Upper Bann MP.

"There has to be a working relationship between those at Bridgewater and those in the local Chamber of Commerce," he said.

"I think letting the application go to a public inquiry took the heat out of the argument.

"But a balance needs to be struck between the two groups if the issue is to be resolved.

"This stalemate cannot continue," he added.