PLANS to build a convenience store on the site of a former petrol station have been given the go-ahead.

Work to create the Sainsbury's store in Tamworth Road, Long Eaton, will begin next month after Erewash Borough Council approved the application.

The plans were given the green light by officers under what are known as delegated powers, meaning that they did not have to go before councillors for debate or consideration.

Two letters of objection were sent to councillors regarding the plans – with concerns over noise and traffic among those raised.

But Paul Mitchell, of architects firm The Harris Partnership, said: "We are very pleased to be playing a key role in bringing forward this food retail scheme for a leading brand.

"As well as providing the local population with more choice when it comes to food shopping, the new store will significantly enhance the Long Eaton and Tamworth Road area.

"It should also attract more business for the surrounding retailers and that's great news for the town as a whole."

Mr Mitchell said that his firm had also designed a "contemporary render and glass food store" for Sainsbury's.

The building work will be carried out by PDR Construction, based in Leeds and Hull.

Last year, an application was made for a premises licence for the store and councillors agreed that when it was built alcohol could be sold there every day from 7am until 11pm.

Sainsbury's had originally asked for the option to sell until midnight, although a spokeswoman for the supermarket said a standard licence application had been submitted and trading hours would only be between 7am and 11pm.

At the time, six residents wrote to the borough council to object to the proposals.