A CONTROVERSIAL plan for a supermarket in Williton which could transform the town has been recommended for approval by planners.


The saga has been rumbling since late 2012 and more than 1,000 Williton residents signed a petition against the supermarket the last time plans were revealed, in 2014.


However, developer David Gliddon has produced redrawn plans for a supermarket, retail units and flats on land behind Bank Street where he already owns a business and is optimistic, saying it is needed more than ever and that the scheme would improve parking and tourism.


Williton Parish Council says the scheme potentially prevents the building of the Inner Relief Road, which they say is a major part of the long term plan for the village.


And Somerset Highways have highlighted that the plans will increase congestion in the town, with the South West Ambulance Service concerned extra traffic would affect the speed emergency services could respond to incidents.


West Somerset District Council's Planning Committee, which has refused the two previous plans, is set to meet today (TURS) to decide on the scheme, with officers recommending it goes ahead, with conditions.


Mr Gliddon said: "With the closure of the paper mill in Watchet and the loss of jobs at West Somerset College and Cricketer's Farm Shop, it will be close to 300 jobs lost in a matter of months so we need employment opportunities more than ever."


"It is not just about the supermarket, we want it to be a social centre to create activity for old and young and have a series of services which are not currently available."
He also believes the plans will improve parking and boost tourism.


"There will always be people who do not want change and I understand that, but this is a opportunity to improve what is on offer here in Williton."


Previously, more than 1,000 people signed a petition which stated: “The application for the supermarket development would lead to our village becoming more congested, would lead to less choice and competition within the village as our traders’ could be forced to close and the scale of the development is too big for our village.


“We the undersigned, are concerned residents who urge our leaders to act now to stop the supermarket plans."


Resident Christine Vallance said she objects because she believes that the plan will have a negative impact on the existing retailers and traffic flow.


She said: "I fail to see the necessity for a large supermarket here in Williton when we already have two that are adequately serving our needs." 


The plans are recommended for approval provided it meets 20 conditions outlined by the council.
The planning committee will be discussing the proposal at Thursday's meeting, which runs from 4.30pm, in the Council Chamber in Williton.