The group set up to fight plans for a Tesco distribution centre being built on the Andover Airfield site is claiming victory, after a deal is signed with a different supermarket brand.

Developers Goodmans and the Co-Operative group now want to bring a smaller warehouse to the area, creating 900 jobs.

The STOP campaign have released a statement saying they're pleased with the announcement and are still hoping to see a mixed business park on site. 

Campaign chair Rhonda Smith said: "STOP welcomes this as it implies that Goodman envisage a mix of structures and business usage on the rest of site. 

"We look forward to receiving further information on this specific development.

"Our position remains unchanged - we want a mixed Business Park on the Airfield, as originally planned, which will provide the mix and quality of jobs that Andover needs."

Trevor Ashworth, director of food retail logistics for the Co-operative Group, commented: "With the acquisition of the Somerfield supermarket chain earlier this year, we are in the process of reshaping our distribution network to ensure we continue to provide high standards of service to our customers.

"Andover is an excellent location from which to serve our stores in this part of southern England. Our planned new RDC will provide both employment and a further boost to the local economy."

Jason Harris of Goodman commented: "We're delighted that the Co-operative Group has decided to invest in Andover. With the recent granting of planning permission on our site, we are able to offer the Co-operative a degree of certainty on the location.

"All issues of principle have been resolved within the existing planning consent and we are therefore hopeful of an early decision on the new application so that we can get on and deliver the new Andover Commercial Park." 

Goodman have also stated that they are committed to maintaining the obligations contained in the Section 106. This includes contributions towards local training and employment initiatives and £200,000 of public art. 

A new planning application will now have to be submitted for the distribution centre, along with a public consultation process.

North West Hampshire's MP has welcomed the news that the Co-op are set to take up residence on the site.

Sir George Young opposed the Tesco building saying it would have made the town too dependent on one employer. He was also worried about potential traffic and environmental problems.

Sir George says this is a better deal but he'll be keeping a close eye on it: "As the local MP, wanting to see more employment in the town, wanting to see that piece of land put to good use, I welcome it.

"I think we do need to make sure there are no more hiccups and that the Co-op take their commitment to the town seriously, become a good employer and do a range of other things supporting the town, it's voluntary organisations in the way I'm sure an enlightened employer would want to do."

Click 'play' to listen to Ben McGrail's interview with Sir George.

What do you think about the plans? You can leave your comments below.