A proposed new Spar shop in Spalding, which caused a storm of protest when planning permission was sought five years ago, is finally to be built.
The developer has confirmed to The Voice that work on the store in Winsover Road will get under way in 2015.
A spokesman said: “I can confirm it’s a store we hope to build and develop next year.”
The news will come as a further blow to 800 people who petitioned to have the plan turned down in 2009.
Opposition was led by staff at Balls Newsagents, in Hawthorn Bank, with the support of nearby pubs Robin Hood and the now non-existent Plough, and Pode Hole Post Office.
Shirley Howells, who has worked at Balls for eight years and compiled the petitions, said this week that the news was “gutting”.
“I feel like I’ve let down all those people who didn’t want it,” she added.
The main objection was concern over highways safety in a busy area where two roads join Winsover Road and there is a zebra crossing.
It was also felt that another off-licence was not necessary, with Balls and Pennygate Stores in close proximity, although that was ruled out and deemed fair trading.
When the plan was brought before South Holland district councillors in September 2009, it was deferred for further input from Lincolnshire County Council’s highways department.
However, highways officers reiterated that they had no concerns with the proposal and the application was passed later that year.
Conditions imposed at the time of planning permission included a restriction on opening hours of 7am-11pm Monday to Saturday and 7am-9pm on Sundays and bank holidays. This was to protect residents’ amenity.
Last year the developer successfully applied for permission to install a cash machine.
Vehicle access to the site – which is expected to include a second, smaller retail unit – would be via Carrington Road.
Bulldozers demolished the former Burden Motors showroom and garage in March 2012.
