The MP for Newquay has welcomed the collapse of plan to build a Tesco superstore on a school playing field in the town.

Newquay Tretherras and Tesco have decided not to pursue proposals for a new Tesco store on Newquay Tretherras' land.

The sale of a playing field at Newquay Tretherras to Tesco had been the source of much controversy locally, with many parents and nearby residents vigorously opposing the deal.

The decision comes after the two parties were not able to reach an agreement on the finer details of a proposed contract and further considerations on whether an effective highways solution could be delivered on the site.

Newquay Tretherras' immediate plan to develop a new build property to replace the junior section of the school, built in the 1950s, will now be put on hold until other significant funding can be identified.

MP Stephen Gilbert said: "I welcome the fact that Tesco and Tretherras have abandoned plans for a supermarket on the school's land.

"This proposal was always very controversial with many people worried about the loss of sporting land, the impact on local businesses and over development of the area.

"I have worked with both the school and local residents as these proposals have developed and will continue to work with the school to ensure they are able to attract the funding it needs to maintain world-class teaching facilities."

Sarah Karkeek, Chair of Governors at Tretherras said: "We are very disappointed that we have had to make this decision but it was one which was approved unanimously by our Governors and, we believe, is the right one in the circumstances."

"The key areas where the academy and Tesco were unable to agree concerned access routes to Newquay Tretherras as well as the exact boundary point between the two proposed premises.

Mrs Karkeek continued: "This has been an incredibly tough decision to make and was not taken lightly. Years of hard work have taken place and we were very excited about these plans.

"Nevertheless the work has not been in vain as we have developed an excellent set of proposals for the future. It may be that our vision will take longer to achieve but I am confident we will continue to provide all of our students with the best possible education and opportunities for their future.

"We are sure the community will continue to support us as we investigate alternative means of delivering ambitious 21st Century educational facilities for Newquay"

James Wiggam, corporate affairs manager for Tesco said: "We have been pleased to work with the school to discuss a potential scheme. We understand there may be some disappointment a decision has been made not to sign a contract but know the school retains an exciting vision to improve their existing facilities.

"We wish Newquay Tretherras every success in their future ambitions. We remain proud to serve our customers in Newquay and will continue to serve the local community from our existing stores in the town."