A controversial scheme to build a South Ockendon supermarket may still be on track, with terms almost agreed with a company hoping to set up the store.

The plan had faltered when a proposal from the Co-op fell through at the last minute, but councillors agreed in September to allow the site's developer, Cliveden Estates, an extra six months to find a new operator.

Members of the policy and resources committee were given a progress report and heard that European company Lidl are close to finalising terms for the site at the junction of Daiglen Avenue and Derwent Parade.

Earlier in the year more than 660 people signed a petition objecting to the plan because they feared the competition would force other shops in the town centre to close.

However, councillors have argued that the development would actually breathe new life into the area and help create new jobs.

The development of the site would mean that Mrs Dilys Dellow, an elderly widow living in a council house near to the proposed supermarket, would be forced to move home.

Council officials say she will be given compensation and offered suitable alternative accommodation.

Councillors heard that Lidl is a European discount retail company which began in northern England and has gradually extended to the south of the country.

They were also told that the firm has already applied for a Justice's Licence to sell alcohol at the proposed site.

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