A SUPERMARKET giant has been given permission to build a major extension despite fears that more out-of-town expansion could threaten Weston businesses. Morrisons will build a new sales floor and create more storage space at its store, on the outskirts of

A SUPERMARKET giant has been given permission to build a major extension despite fears that more out-of-town expansion could threaten Weston businesses.Morrisons will build a new sales floor and create more storage space at its store, on the outskirts of the town near Locking Castle, after planners said the proposals would improve the shopping facilities for the district.But before the decision was made, town centre traders said small independent businesses will be forced to close if yet more retail development on the edge of Weston takes place.Town centre manager Steve Townsend wrote to North Somerset Council on behalf of the shop owners pleading with planners not to allow more sales space for non-food items, as it could do irreversible harm to existing businesses.Mr Townsend was especially concerned the extension would mean even more shoppers would prefer to drive to the supermarket rather than using independent town centre shops.In its application the firm does not specify what it will be selling at the new extension. The company's planning agents concluded the planning application by saying: "The design of the supermarket is a sustainable development in keeping with the local area and surrounding environment."The extension will create increased activity at the store and possibly providing increased employment."The permeability of the site is retained with good transportation links."The development integrates well into the local area providing increased flexibility to the residents of Weston."More retail outlets are due to arrive on the edge of Weston soon, with five businesses planning on creating new stores at Railway Triangle Park near Flowerdown Bridge.B&Q, DFS, Comet, curtain and blind retailer Paul Simon and SCS have all been given planning approval to be housed in a massive new building measuring more than 12,000sq metres.