GAZETTE & HERALD: Residents are angry at the possibility of a new illuminated sign being put up as part of Somerfield's extension plans.

Councillors, who were looking to work with the supermarket, are also disappointed with the lack of co-operation they have had.

Mary Chivers, from Mill Street, Calne, lives opposite the supermarket and is worried about the affect the new fascias will have.

Mrs Chivers said: "It's a nice area around here. It's very quiet, even if it's in the centre of the town, and just having these lights and things could attract all sorts of people.

"I understand they may have illuminations around the site and across the back as well.

"I should object strongly if they're on the end here because it would be directly into our window."

Coun Tom Briggs, who chairs the town planning committee, said that previously Somerfield had wanted an illuminated sign and feels they will struggle with these plans.

"Somerfield put this through about a month ago and they wanted a huge revolving illuminous sign and we said absolutely not, we are against that.

"We understood it was not going to be allowed because it's in a conservation area and it's opposite a grade two listed building.

"I think this time the response will be exactly the same as before. The whole part of the centre of the town is in the conservation area.

"The thing is this changes the aspect of a listed building.

"It's one thing smartening up the shop front but I don't think this is needed."

Mayor of Calne, Coun Carol O'Gorman, said she was had hoped Somerfield would work with the town and district council.

"We welcome the development and the increase in size because it will give the community better facilities and show that we are growing as a market town and will hopefully invite more business to come to our town."

A statement from Somerfield said: "We can confirm that we are currently applying for planning permission to change the exterior signage of our Calne store.

"It's to early at this stage to talk about specifics, but generally a store extension would offer customers a bigger and better choice of goods."