A DATE for a public inquiry into plans for the former Ushers bottling plant will be set within days.

The Government Office for the South West called in Foinavon's plans for the former bottling plant so the Deputy Prime Minister's office could make a final ruling.

All statements to be used in the inquiry had to be handed over to the Inspectorate by Wednesday, with a date fora public inquiry to be announced soon.

Fears further delays will lead to big-name retailers pulling out are worrying shoppers, who want to see Marks and Spencer and Matalan brought to the town.

Grants worth £44,000 for social housing was also lost, leaving West Wilts MP Dr Andrew Murrison fuming.

Dr Murrison pinned the blame firmly on minister Yvette Cooper, whose decisions also affected Wiltshire's county town in relation to the closure of the magistrates' court.

He said: "She has masterminded this delay with its consequent disappointment for people needing a home." Cllr Jeff Osborn said people often ask him when big-name retailers are coming to the town.

He said: "With Ushers we had a definite site, a definite development, a definite commitment. People cannot help but raise the question how the plans have been through every damn hurdle and at the last minute get snatched away.

"There is a danger that with any further delay we could miss out on retailers. I can understand local people's concerns."