OPPOSITION has emerged to plans for a new Co-op store at land at a popular Kingsteignton pub.

Submitted by Aspect Developments Ltd, the application - reference 26/00175/FUL - is seeking permission for the construction of a convenience store at land forming part of the Ten Tors Inn, namely an area of car parking and one of the pub’s beer gardens.

In February, a spokesperson for the Co-op told the Mid-Devon Advertiser that, subject to planning consent and approval, they would operate the store, adding it would create local jobs.

Teignbridge Council are due to make a decision by July 13.

At present, planning officers are mulling over the associated documents, including objections submitted by locals.

Several objectors claim the new store will negatively affect traffic in the area, while others pointed to the need, or lack thereof, for another connivence store in the area.

But according to the planning statement for 26/00175/FUL, the proposal has come about as a result of the Applicant identifying ‘an under-provision of retail provision of a “local” scale in the area in question’.

St Austell Brewery, the freeholder of the site, said its focus was on ‘protecting the future of the pub and ensuring it continues to thrive at the heart of the community’.

The planning statement goes on to say: ‘The settlement of Kingsteignton has a core commercial area in its southern portion, which is then complimented by a number of local convenience stores outside it.

‘However, there is currently no provision to serve the local population within the vicinity of the application site, which is a deficit this application seeks to address’.

The application has received some voice of support, however.

Supporters say the new store will bring employment opportunities, as well as greater choice for customers.