A FINAL agreement allowing a supermarket to be built in a Somerset village has been signed – a year after the store was first given the go-ahead.

Sainsbury’s was granted permission to build a shop at Steart Farm in Wedmore Road in Cheddar last February.

The decision was made subject to section 106 agreements, where a developer provides grants and support to benefit the community.

Since then, the developers and council officers have been trying to settle the exact terms of the agreement, which remain confidential until all parties have signed the contract.

It may include subsidised parking and money for village shops.

Sainsbury’s regional development manager, Ben Littman, said: “We’re optimistic the section 106 will be finalised very soon.

“Many local people have told us they’re looking forward to having a Sainsbury’s in Cheddar and we’re hopeful the obstacles can be cleared soon and we can be on site next year.”

Sedgemoor District Council is now waiting for confirmation from the landowner for the sale

of the land and the payment of fees.

However, the plans could yet face a judicial review in the High Court from rival store Budgens, based in Roynon Way.

Budgens has six weeks to ask for a review once the terms of the agreement have been made public.