THE decision to approve a new supermarket in Broadheath could have ‘catastrophic’ implications for Sale, it is claimed.

Trafford’s planning chiefs gave the green light to a scheme to build an Asda store at Lyon Industrial estate on July 25 - just a fortnight after turning down the application because of the impact it would have on plans to regenerate Sale.

And this week, the owner of the Square shopping centre in Sale, Maloneview, stressed that the decision could prevent it from attracting a food anchor store to the town, and so scupper its regeneration plans, which could create 250 jobs.

The planning committee went against the recommendation of planning officers to approve the Asda scheme, submitted by Property Alliance Group, by a majority of 12-1.

Mark Rebbeck, commercial director at Maloneview, hit out: “The council’s decision to approve the application led by Property Alliance Group after refusing it just two weeks previously, came as a complete shock.

“This was a significant U-turn that goes against the independent advice in the planning report, which clearly states that our site in Sale is preferable to any site in Broadheath.

“Without an anchor tenant our planned redevelopment of the Square will be unviable which could be catastrophic for the town.”

The company is currently taking legal advice about its options.

Mr Rebbeck added:“We believe that there are many local people and businesses who share our views and want to see investment where it’s needed, here in Sale town centre.”

But at the planning committee meeting that approved the scheme, Cllr Brian Shaw said that the Square development is by no means a done deal. Councillors Whetton and Walsh claimed that, due to heavy traffic on the A56, Broadheath and Sale shoppers tend not to travel to different shopping areas, meaning a new supermarket in Broadheath would not unduly impact on Sale.

Property Alliance Group (PAG) claims its plans will create 350 jobs in Broadheath.

A spokesman for PAG said: “Since out initial public consultation, it was clear that the community wants an Asda at this location.

“A new Adsa in Broadheath will create hundreds of jobs, improve public transport links, provide cheaper petrol, regenerate an under-used site and bring improvements to local roads.”