STORE wars debate is overshadowing a huge development for Ottery, according to the driving force behind a proposed re-generation of the town s factory site.

STORE wars debate is overshadowing a "huge development" for Ottery, according to the driving force behind a proposed re-generation of the town's factory site.

A spokesman for the Churchill Property Group this week told the Herald that Tesco's brand-name is detracting attention from its major bid, which includes a proposed new library and nearly 100 residential units.

Ottery town council this week revealed residents can have their say on just the site's 'food store' plans at a special meeting in The Institute on Friday, October 30.

The Herald understands the Tesco brand name will not be considered when councillors give their opinions.

The supermarket giant owns its part of the factory site, but all plans have been submitted by Churchill.

The developer last week revealed five planning applications for the area including the conversion of its mill buildings for community and residential use, a food store, sheltered accommodation on land near the Tumbling Weir Hotel, and new apartments at Otter View, Mill Street.

The fact the plans are separate could only see parts of the scheme get the go-ahead from East Devon District Council planning chiefs when they pass final judgement on them.

A Churchill Property Group spokesman said on Wednesday: "I think it's important the development is looked as one, as a re-generation of whole of the site.

"A retail unit has always been an integral part of our plans. Tesco came on board and changed things slightly, but this is a re-development issue for a whole area.

"If Tesco was turned down it certainly would present problems as all the plans, and issues such as access, are tied in together.

"I don't know what ramifications it would have on the rest of the site but it would certainly have some.

"This shouldn't be a matter of what operator is there, it is a food store, there is an awful lot more than quite a small retail store in these plans. This is a major project for Ottery and the restoration of a landmark building."

- PLANS for the factory site include a new library for the town. However, a Devon County Council spokesperson said that while there is a "desire" for Ottery to get a new library, no agreement has been reached with Churchill.

- OTTERY town council will debate the factory 'food store' plans in The Institute on October 30 at a specially arranged public meeting at 7pm. An hour has been set aside for residents to speak for a maximum of three minutes at the meeting. Mayor Glyn Dobson said groups should appoint a spokesperson, and anybody wishing to speak should register with the town clerk on (01404) 812252.