A PLAN to use Chippenham's former Goldiggers building as a food and drink outlet, instead of a nightclub, will come before North Wiltshire District Council's development control committee on May 28.

Developers E and J (Redditch) then have just two days to close the deal on the lease before the May 30 deadline.

E and J had previously planned to demolish the Art Deco buildingto build a theme pub, restaurant and retail unit.

At a meeting of the full council on Tuesday Coun Philip Allnatt tabled a motion saying the council should not allow the developers more time

"We expected something to happen in three months, and have gone on for a further nine months on the basis of good legal advice," he said.

"It does seem to me as a basic rule that local authorities should not be messed around by private companies.

"We should stand firm on what we believe or the public will have no confidence in us."

Coun Allnatt's motion will be considered by the Executive Committee.

Coun Jane Scott requested a briefing for members on the topic of Goldiggers so new councillors would understand the complex background to the situation.

Planning officers have recommended approving the plans for the change of use at the Goldiggers site.