SUPERMARKET chain Booths has reaffirmed its intention to build a store in Grange-over-Sands - but is looking for a new short term tenant while planning details are ironed out.

The supermarket was first granted permission for a new store on Station Square in 2008.

Speculation was mounting that since Vantage Toyota moved off the site earlier this year that building work would soon start.

MORE TOP STORIES: But a spokesperson for Booths said: "Since the original scheme was drawn up a new improved flood prevention scheme has been prepared by the Environment Agency.

"In order to implement the scheme alterations will be required to the existing planning permission and an application has been made to the Local Planning Authority (South Lakeland District Council)."

Director Graham Booth said: “Booths remain committed to building a new store in Grange. We look forward to bringing our high quality offer of locally sourced food and drink for the benefit of the residents and visitors to the town. Until such time as we know which scheme is to be developed we will be looking for a suitable short term tenant to occupy the Station Square site.”

But the plan has come under fire from local residents and Grange Town Council members, who claim the risk of flooding had not been fully assessed and that it would raise the water level of the ornamental garden pond.