TRADERS in Porthmadog say they fear that plans for a major retail and hotel development in the town could be ‘another nail in the coffin’ for high street businesses.

Morbaine Limited is intending to apply for outline planning permission for a development on land at Penamser Estate (pictured) for two non-food retail units, one with ancillary garden centre, a hotel with a café/restaurant and associated parking.

The developers have worked with stores such as Asda, Morrisons and B&Q and a consultation has now been launched for the community to have their say on their plans.

However, the plans have received mixed reviews from business owners and community leaders.

Adrian Williams, who runs Kerfoots on High Street, said if this development is given the green light, it could be a ‘nail in the coffin’ for high street businesses who are already struggling.

He said: “Opening up another two retail units on the outskirts of Porthmadog is not an ideal situation for the businesses within the high street.

“Footfall is already an issue for the town, as with any other town in the country, and this could be just another nail in the coffin for local businesses.”

Andrea Kellegher, from the planning consultancy Turley, acting on behalf of the developer, says following the consultation an outline planning application will be submitted to Gwynedd Council before the end of the year.

See the full story in this week’s Arfon/Dwyfor edition of the Cambrian News, in shops now