Two campaigns are being launched to keep Tesco out of Jericho in Oxford, even though the retail giant insists it has no plans to open up a store.

Residents believe the arrival of Tesco will be the inevitable consequence of a major redevelopment under way in Little Clarendon Street.

Businesses on the corner of Walton Street and Little Clarendon Street were given notice in the summer by a developer wanting to create 41 student rooms and six shops.

Oxford City Council voted through plans to demolish 126 Walton Street and 32/32a Little Clarendon Street.

In the face of persistent rumours, Jericho Community Association has contacted Tesco to find whether the company is planning to move into Jericho.

At the same time a Battle 4 Jericho campaign has been started by Max Mason, owner of the former sausage restaurant The Big Bang in Little Clarendon Street, who has been forced to move because of the redevelopment.

A “Say No to Tesco campaign” launched to keep Jericho alive has also been formed.

But a Tesco spokesman said: “This site is not under consideration presently. Should that position change we will let people know.”