A new Sainsbury’s supermarket looks set to be built in Bishops Waltham, near Winchester, after controversial plans for the new store were recommended for approval by local councillors.
Proposals for a new 35,000 sq ft Sainsburys superstore and a GP surgery were submitted to Winchester City Council last year.
Despite strong protests from campaigners, planning officers have now recommended councillors give permission for the store to be built on the old Abbey Mill site in the market town.
Council officers said local residents were split over the plans, with thousands of letters being written in support and against the development.
Many believe the new Sainsburys store will hurt local high street trade, but councillors have stressed that the development will “not have a significantly harmful impact on the town centre” and will “respond positively to the character and appearance of the area”.
They added that the grocery store will also boost employment opportunities in the village, with more than 300 jobs expected to be created.
A final decision on the supermarket plans will be made by Winchester City Council next Thursday (April 7).
