PLANS to create a new Waitrose store in Weston have been given the green light.

PLANS to create a new Waitrose store in Weston have been given the green light.

The supermarket giant has been given the go-ahead from council planners to convert the former B&Q and Iceland stores in Phillips Road.

The proposals put forward by Waitrose bosses include plans to redecorate the derelict site, create a caf� and build one entrance to replace the two separate ones previously serving the different stores.

The supermarket, which would be part of the John Lewis Partnership, is due to open this year, but proposals do not include extending the site.

A spokesman said: "This will greatly improve the appearance of the building and its setting, which is recognised as part of the main transport corridor into town.

"The changes to the car park will deliver a much-improved layout that allows for safe access and movement for both vehicles and pedestrians."

The new outlet would be the first Weston store Waitrose has opened, with the nearest currently 13 miles away in Portishead.

A spokesman for the company told the Mercury last year that the supermarket chain was keen to open up in this area as the brand has always been 'well received' in town.

However, town centre manager Steve Townsend, who worked for the high-end grocer as a student, previously appealed to Waitrose bosses to look for a more central location.