Readers slam Tesco tunnel fiasco

The tunnel collapse at Gerrards Cross on July 1 has produced an unprecedented response from our readers. The tunnel was built to accommodate a new Tesco site above the railway track. However, its collapse has highlighted the sentiment against the project within the local community.

'It is a disgrace that Tesco went against the local wishes and started building their new superstore on top of a railway line. The construction company and Tesco should be held responsible for this mess,' said Robert Sung.

'On the financial side, I think it will hit them hard. What kind of compensation packages will they offer to commuters and British Rail?'

One inconvenienced commuter, Jason Zymelka, adds: 'As someone who regularly uses this line from Princes Risborough to London Marylebone, I find it scandalous that this work was approved and in some ways glad that this has happened because it shows just what a stupid idea it was in the first place.'

'I live in a small terrace within feet of the road to the site and have watched as our 130 year-old wall has crumbled under the assault of heavily laden lorries,' added resident Mike Barnes.

'Tesco has always refused to even meet local people - apart from a committee of the local council - to discuss the disruption and damage being caused. There isn't much social responsibility on view.'