Simpson's Garden Centre protests against Tesco opening in Inverness

The centre argues that Dobbies has underestimated the amount of traffic that will be generated by the proposal to open in Inshes.

Tesco plans will see the business opening a large new store in a former Focus DIY outlet. The new store, adjoining Tesco’s supermarket, would be about 2.5km from Simpsons Garden Centre.

A Simpson's representative said the objection was against Tesco, rather than Dobbies.

Dobbies property director Stuart Wright said: "We have been considering Inverness for a long time and are very excited at the possibility of developing at Inshes.

"It is a strong retail destination and benefits from a long history of garden and home retail and we are delighted to work with the local authority to clarify any issues that need to be addressed."