Sir Terry Leahy 300

It states the council is legally free to pursue whatever course of action it considers appropriate, whether submitting a planning application or seeking a compulsory purchase order.

The letter adds: “In the meantime, Tesco remains fully committed to participating in the delivery of the regeneration of the Great Homer Street area, as it has made clear for many years.”

Meanwhile, Jayne Hettle, a director of economic development at the city council, has written back stating that it believes Tesco’s action is preventing progress.

“It is the council’s view, as stated at the planning inquiry and accepted by the planning inspector, that the position taken by your client in attempting to secure a planning consent for a stand-alone store within the area will prevent the progress of the regeneration scheme,” her letter states.

But she added: “I am, however, heartened to hear that your client is fully committed to the regeneration of this area, and I would therefore welcome the opportunity to begin negotiations on the acquisition of its land holdings within the site, on the basis of a ‘no scheme world’, at the earliest opportunity.”

Everton ward councillor Jane Corbett also urged Sir Terry to intervene: “Please do the right thing by us here and withdraw your challenge’.”