Telford councillors urged to reject Sainsbury's expansion

A planned store expansion by Sainsbury's in Telford, which could create up to 80 full and part-time jobs, has been recommended for refusal by council officers.

The supermarket giant has applied to increase its floor space at Forge Retail Park by 61 per cent.

A decision was deferred at Telford & Wrekin Council plans board in June and Sainsbury's bosses were asked to provide more information. But planning officers are still recommending the application be refused.

In a report to councillors ahead of a plans board meeting on Wednesday, officers said: "The planning authority considers there are more preferable locations in or around the town centre for such a development.

"We believe the proposed development will also have a detrimental impact on the vitality, attractiveness and viability of Telford Town Centre."

Jane Piper, spokeswoman for Sainsbury's, previously said the extension would allow the firm to offer dozens of jobs.