Traders who fear their businesses will be destroyed by a planned Asda supermarket are planning legal action to halt the scheme.

The superstore giant finally gained planning permission for the store in Rawreth Lane, Rayleigh, following a public inquiry led by a Government inspector.

Although it was always on the Essex County Council masterplan for the former Park School site, the Asda proposal was turned down twice by the district council.

Chemist David Chiung, who runs the Hambro Phar-macy in Hambro Parade andhas formed a traders' action group, said it may seek a judicial review of the decision.

He added: "There is no doubt this is unfair, unjust and will certainly cause traffic chaos in Rayleigh. At the moment, we have solicitors looking into what we can do.

"There is no doubt this will have a devastating effect on the traders in this parade, on Rayleigh High Street and the shops in Hullbridge.

"We are determined to fight this all the way".

Resident Pauline Putt of Exmouth Drive, Rayleigh, is also angry.

She said: "I can't help but wonder why we have local councils?

"Why are we allowed to think we can run own affairs when, at any time, a planning inspector can override what the local council and local people want ?"

In its submissions to the district council, Asda said a consultants' report suggested comparisons with other areas showed the store would not have any serious impact on local shops.

Essex County Council highways department said local roads would be capable of handling extra traffic generated by the supermarket.