Planning warning to stores.

(From The Journal)

Byline: Russell Lynch

THE competition watchdog yesterday confirmed it is to press ahead with tougher planning hurdles to stop supermarkets dominating local markets.

The Competition Commission has formally recommended a "competition test" which will prevent those with a strong presence in a particular area shutting out rivals by building more stores or major extensions to existing outlets.

Chairman Peter Freeman said: "We expect that the competition test will have the effect we intend by helping to bring in competition where it is lacking and to stop individual retailers consolidating strong positions in local areas to the …