WHITTLESEY district and county councillor Martin Curtis insisted last night he would be voting on the applications by both Tesco and Sainsbury’s to build superstores along the Eastrea Road.

He dismissed internet whispers that he had ruled himself out of the decision making process by telling Twitters followers that “I will be at planning committee.”

That committee, which meets on May 9 at Fenland Hall, will have before them applications by both supermarket chains- and a third application by Sainsbury’s for a commercial estate, possibly light industry or possibly for a family budget hotel.

Cllr Curtis, a former chairman but now vice chairman of the committee, said on Twitter that “an accusation was made that I met Tesco two years ago. I passed it to police who confirmed it as false.”

And to emphasise the point he tweeted: “I HAVE NEVER MET TESCO!!!”

Details began to emerge today of the procedures to be followed which will include, probably by Monday, the recommendations of council officers.

On the day of the special committee the councillors will hear from both supermarkets and listen to presentations in favour and against both before they then go back and cast their votes.

By dealing with the applications this way the committee believe those concerned will view their actions as being totally impartial.

One committee member definitely not eligible to vote is Councillor Kay Mayor, the mayor of Whittlesey, whose brother owns much of the land earmarked for the Sainsbury store.

Cllr Curtis added: “I am not going to comment further except to say that I do have a genuine open mind about every aspect of this.”