CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a supermarket in a Ribble Valley town are to be opened up for public debate.

Residents of Longridge, including town councillors, borough councillors, shopkeepers and anyone else with an interest in the project by Booth's to put a supermarket in Kestor Lane are invited to a public meeting on January 11.

Ribble Valley councillors and Longridge town councillors have already discussed the sale of the land and swapped opinions and concerns.

Now the emphasis is on full consultation with the people of Longridge.

The meeting, at 7pm in Longridge Civic Hall, will be chaired by the Mayor of Longridge, Coun Pam Cliff.

Ribble Valley development chief David Morris said:

"The borough council has now proposed a change to the Districtwide Local Plan which asks for a change to the designation of the Kestor Lane land from its present essential open space to mixed retail and recreational development.

"In taking this action, the council have ensured that people's individual objections will be heard in public.

"Ribble Valley Council and its planning and recreation committees will consider views very carefully." Anyone wishing to comment should do so in writing to the Ribble Valley Director of Development at the Council Offices in Church Walk, Clitheroe, by February 1.

Forms for objections can be obtained from the council, Longridge planning surgery and the town library.

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