The scheme will include the construction of a Sainsbury's superstore as well as 729 new homes, including an element of affordable housing. The site also includes public open space and land on which the developer will potentially build a school.
The planning committee unanimously approved the plans following a recommendation (34-page / 228KB PDF) by the Council's planning officers.
The planning officers said in their report that analysis of the scheme's retail impact had suggested a risk that the proposed superstore could result in closure of existing convenience stores in the town centre. However, they said that these stores already operate alongside a "significant out-of-centre superstore offer" and that the potential impact on town centre convenience stores would be limited.
Conygar said in a statement that it will now work with Sainsbury's towards satisfying all outstanding conditions in its conditional sale agreement after which development will begin.
"We are delighted at the decision of the planning committee which follows a long period of consultation with the various stakeholders in the area," said Conygar chief executive Robert Ware. "This will enable us to bring an excellent new store to the town which at the same time provides a catalyst to residential development at the site."
Planning permission will be granted subject to the completion of a Section 106 Agreement. Conygar said that it had agreed the principles of the agreement with the Council.
