SHOPPING centre owners claim the redevelopment of Congleton's West Heath precinct would take trade from the town centre.

TBI, which owns the West Heath centre, wants to redevelop the precinct into a 30,000 square foot supermarket and eight small shops.

However the scheme has sparked opposition from Land Leeds, the owners of the Bridestones shopping centre in the heart of Congleton, who say the TBI proposals would take convenience goods shopping from the town centre.

In addition 54 residents living near the West Heath centre have signed a petition opposing the TBI scheme.

They claimed the scale of the planned supermarket would harm the regeneration of shopping in the town centre.

They added there would be a dearth of local shops during construction work, and there appeared to be no guarantee the new precinct would include a post office or chemist.

Borough planning chief Geoff Allen is recommending the TBI scheme be refused because of its impact on town centre shopping.

''I am aware the centre needs further investment and refurbishment, but am not convinced the current plan is the only option available to ensure its long-term survival,'' he added.

Councillors are to visit the precinct before taking a decision on the scheme.

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