A POLL conducted by The Cornishman to establish the preferred supermarket development for Hayle has shown a majority in favour of the out-of-town Asda scheme.

An internet vote by readers on this paper's website www.thisiscornwall.co.uk showed that 59% of the 123 respondents favoured the project at Hayle Rugby Club.

Sainsbury's came second with 14% followed by Morrisons with 13% and lastly the ING scheme with 4%.

Two of the public bodies consulted by planners on ING's South Quay proposals delivered their verdict this week.

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment strongly urged refusal of the ING plans, saying the style and scale was not appropriate to the site or the masterplan.

The International Council on Monuments and Sites, who awarded the port World Heritage Status, also recommended refusal, adding that: "Hayle deserves better".

ING this week criticised town councillors' unanimous refusal to support "the only realistic and viable opportunity" to kick-start the harbour regeneration.

A spokesman said: "The town council would prefer to see out-of-town proposals go ahead and consumer spending continue to leave Hayle in an ever-increasing manner.

"This will only accelerate the decline of the commercial heart of the town and its economic prospects."

The company offered the results of its own questionnaire completed at the exhibition last year, which was at odds with a residents' association survey showing that 70% favoured an out-of-town location.

The ING poll revealed that 47% believed a supermarket on South Quay would revitalise the town centre against 34% who disagreed.

A second question, asking whether people would be encouraged back to Hayle to shop, showed 54% agreeing and 27% disagreeing.

A spokesman said: "People realise it will provide more than a food store but will reinvigorate the town centre.

"Without this investment in the current economic climate the harbour and its environs will continue to be derelict and in decline."