Supermarket giant Tesco has pulled out of its plans to build a supermarket in Tolworth, just 24 hours before campaigners gearing up to fight them at a public meeting.

It is the second time Tesco has abandoned its plans for the site next to Tolworth station, which MP Edward Davey believes is unprecedented.

Tesco wanted to build a supermarket, 562 homes and a community centre and would have completely redesigned the A3 roundabout.

But a spokesman said today that the cost of the road works were too high to make it viable.

Corporate Affairs Manager James Wiggam said: “We have taken the difficult decision to withdraw our application for the Tolworth site. We have been unable to reconcile the traffic solutions with the commercial viability of the scheme.

“I would like to thank the many local residents who have taken part in the consultations on the project. We know that many will be very disappointed by our decision.”

He said they have not yet decided if a third planning application will be submitted.

Kingston and Surbiton MP Edward Davey declared it a “victory for Tolworth” and hopes the site will be sold off to developers so family houses can be built.

A consultation meeting organised by Kingston Council at Tolworth Girls' School tomorrow night will still go ahead despite the announcement. Planning bosses will be on hand to answer any questions.

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