Supermarket giant Tesco has been refused the chance to build a huge superstore on the outskirts of St Albans City Centre - for now.

A round of applause greeted the decision around an hour ago, made at a planning meeting held at the Alban Arena.

Hundreds of people turned out to see the debate, which saw Tesco representative Mike Kissman defend the controversial application for a store in London Road.

Many councillors echoed the words of Peter Trevelyan, chairman of the Civic Society who said: "This is the wrong store on the wrong site."

Two extra reasons for not granting the application were added to an existing list of eight in an attempt to make the refusal robust, should Tesco seek to appeal the decision.

Mr Kissman did not say whether or not the supermarket giant would appeal, but chairman of the committee Chris Brazier recognised it was a likely prospect.

One reason for refusal was the severe impact on air quality and the other was the adverse affect the store would have on retail in the city centre, including the market.

Residents who have been campaigning against the application, including the Stop Tesco Campaign, celebrated with champagne outside the arena when the meeting closed.

  • For more from the meeting see Wedesday's Review.