VIEWS remain mixed on the impact a new Morrisons store will have on Abergavenny, two weeks after it opened.

Since plans were first announced in 2004 the store has proved controversial and even after its opening the supermarket is continuing to cause debate.

County Cllr Tudor Thomas (Labour, Priory ward), who previously objected to the plans, said some traders have reported their takings have been hit since the store opened.

“It is having an effect on trade in the town,” he said.

“Some of the market traders have said their takings are down because Morrisons have got this market street concept.

“What they are selling is good but it is a bit all encompassing.”

Cllr Thomas has written to Monmouthshire County Council calling for signs to be erected to direct shoppers from the supermarket to Abergavenny Market and the High Street.

He said he is concerned the wide range of products on offer at the supermarket, including household goods and also a cafe inside, could take trade away from independent shops.

“I fear for the market,” he added.

“It is a unique feature in the town.”

But others have welcomed the addition of Morrisons to the town.

Wayne Gibbon,who holds an antiques and collectables stall at Abergavenny Market every Wednesday, said trade has been busier than normal.

He said: “I think it will improve sales for us but I can’t speak for other traders.

“Since Morrisons opened we noticed the footfall was a lot better perhaps because people are coming to have a look.

“The footfall in the market was a lot better but having said that they were not buying.

“I think it will be more beneficial than not in the long run.

“It is going to bring more people into the town.”

Mr Gibbon, 53, also said he would welcome the idea of having signs from the supermarket pointing shoppers towards the market and town centre.

The 25,000sq foot store created around 250 jobs with stone from the old cattle market on the site used in the new building for the store entrance as well as the boundary walls.