A controversial supermarket plan for Narberth is set for refusal next week.

Members of Pembrokeshire County Council's planning and rights of way committee are being recommended to turn down the application for part demolition, change of use and extension to form Class A1 retail foodstore at the former Brains Brewery and Retail Store, Spring Gardens.

In a report to come before the committee next Tuesday, the proposal, as submitted, is considered to be 'unacceptable in that it would introduce a foodstore on a site located outside the designated town centre of Narberth when a sequentially preferable site exists within the town centre'.

The application is developer-led. However, the future client is likely to be the Co-operative foodstore.

The council report also states: 'Additionally, the proposal is considered to have an adverse impact upon the continued viability and vitality of the town centre by reason of its disproportionate scale in relation to existing retail provision within the town and the cumulative impact of the proposed store together with the new permitted store in Kilgetty'.

It is also considered that the proposal is contrary to the provisions of Policy 37 of the Joint Unitary Development Plan and the guidance contained within Planning Policy Wales (Second Edition).

In a statement issued to us, County Clr. Wynne Evans said: "I am pleased that finally this application is coming before committee as there have been numerous delays, and I have been listening clearly to arguments from all sides, without making comment recently.

"I would envisage that whatever the outcome of the meeting, this will lay matters to rest."