SIGNS lining the streets through the village are highlighting the strength of opposition against the Co-op moving back into Wylam.

Objectors to plans for the Co-op chain to set up shop at the former Wylam Garage site in Main Street have fixed signs to their properties to show they are not willing to go down without a fight.

Many local people are against the proposals as there are strong concerns about road safety, while many are also worried the move would have a negative on the existing independent traders in the village.

The proposed development is next to a playing field well used by children and a bus stop used by schoolchildren, with parents worried about the risks associated with having heavy traffic in the area.

Dee MacDonald lives opposite the site in Ingham Terrace, and is one of the many householders who has installed a sign on her property.

She said: “I live directly opposite where it is planned, and my neighbours and I are all mothers to young children and there is a large road safety aspect.

“I take my son to the nearby park and there is a school bus stop there too, so having a supermarket which opens seven days a week with big delivery trucks and no suitable parking is going to affect us.”

Jennifer Power lives behind the proposed site and is another who is protesting against the plans.

She is concerned that the existing businesses in the centre of the village will be hit hard as a result of the Co-op offering a range of services under one roof.

She said: “People are worried about the fact it will have an impact on the five independent stores as fresh produce and household items will be sold at the Co-op.”

The deadline for comments on the proposal is October 28.