A decision is nearing on plans to convert a Wiltshire retail park’s bed store into a restaurant and takeaway.

In July plans were submitted to convert the Bensons for Beds unit at Hathaway Retail Park, in Chippenham, into a mixed restaurant and takeaway.

A determination on the change of use application had originally been scheduled for September but has been the subject of delays.

Wiltshire Council told this paper a decision on the proposal is now expected to be confirmed during the week of Monday, December 3.

The reason for the delay was not revealed by the council.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Bensons for Beds in ChippenhamBensons for Beds in Chippenham (Image: Newsquest)

If approved, the proposal could potentially see the store operate as a restaurant with a higher level of takeaway, although no tenant had been identified when the plans were lodged.

While the sale of food at the retail park is partially restricted by planning conditions, owners Aegon UK Property Fund say the scheme would give the site greater “flexibility.”

Their covering letter read: “This will allow a number of joint and linked trips to the retail park and help strengthen the range and diversity of retail offering… further enhancing the site's overall vitality and viability.”

A spokesperson for Bensons for Beds previously said the retailer was aware of the application but emphasised it had no current plans to leave their Chippenham store.