THE fate of the former Green Bengal restaurant in Bromley Cross still hangs in the balance, after councillors deferred making a decision on plans for a Sainsbury’s store.

Developers CW Construction applied to demolish the building in Darwen Road, which used to be home to The Volunteer pub, and build a new Sainsbury’s shop, two commercial units and a car park.

The plans were met with horror by local councillors and residents, who argued that proposals for the historic building, which was the birthplace of the Lancashire FA, should be more thought through.

Bromley Cross councillor David Greenhalgh, who is not a member of the planning committee, attended to speak against the application.

He said he was disappointed that the building was planned for demolition and said he was concerned about whether car parking spaces were provided within the plans.

Cllr Greenhalgh said: “There are going to be up to 20 new jobs created with these plans, which is welcome. We know they won’t be all on site at the same time, but unless these people are local they will drive, probably around 10 cars on site.

“With customers to the food shop and the other retail units, we know more cars will end up on residential streets. The number of car parking spaces is inadequate.

“And I don’t think it’s beyond the realms of possibility that these will be used as a commuter car park, as the site is close to the station.”

Cllr Norman Critchley, who also represents Bromley Cross, voted to defer a decision on the application to see whether the developers would be willing to reduce the number of units on the site.

He also recommended that vehicles entering or leaving the site must be in a forward gear, to stop heavy-duty lorries blocking up the busy road.

Cllr Critchley said: “I don’t have any problem with the site. I think the proposal will provide a very good retail use of that site and provide facilities for the local community. But I’m very concerned about the parking. I’m worried to send the wrong message to the developers altogether.”

— I’m happy with the plans but I do believe there are one too many units.”