IT could take up to two years for work to start on the former Tesco site as negotiations with developers continue.

West Wiltshire District Council's corporate director Ian Gallin hinted that the first big retail project in Trowbridge could spark an influx of well-known names.

If problems with car parking provision and other layout concerns could be overcome, Mr Gallin estimated work could begin on the old Tesco site in two years or less.

Trowbridge town councillors criticised a bid by developers, St Stephens Place Ltd, to demolish the building and create a shopping and leisure complex.

A previous application found no friends at the district council planning committee, with councillors telling architects to go away and try again.

Fears over the dilapidated Tesco building shell attracting squatters and vandals may be heightened by the two-year timescale estimate.