Bosses at the Original Factory Shop have confirmed that they are keen to remain in Tranent, despite the arrival of two supermarket chains to the town.

The store, located on Haddington Road, is next door to the site of the proposed Aldi supermarket at the former Tranmare hotel, while Asda is set to take over the current Co-op store at the other end of the road.

However, Original Factory Shop marketing director Colin Leggatt told the Courier that the arrival of the supermarket chains made the town “a more attractive place.” He said: “We welcome anything that makes Tranent a more attractive place to shop.

“We can’t control competition opening, and we have to focus on giving our customers great deals and great service.” The lease for the shop, which sells a range of electrical, homeware and outdoor items, runs out in 2017, but Mr Leggatt hoped it would attract more shoppers to the town, and in particular to the Original Factory Shop.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised over increased traffic following the arrival of the new supermarkets.

Liz Hutchison, who chairs the Muirpark & Steading View Tenants and Residents Association (MSVTRA) is concerned that the plans to open Asda and Aldi stores on Haddington Road will cause increased problems in Muirpark.

She said speeding drivers there had been “a nightmare for 25 years”, and said the 20mph restrictions in place would not prevent drivers from using the streets as a short-cut.

Earlier this year, East Lothian Council introduced the reduced speed limit, following a campaign from the local tenants and residents association.