The controversial plan to build a JD Wetherspoon ‘superpub’ in Largs was brought to a halt by proposals for an outside terrace on Gallowgate Street, the design of refuse storage and the repositioning of a nearby bus shelter.

The council’s planning department had received 115 letters of objection since the application was submitted at the beginning of August. During that period they received 15 representations of support.

Issues cited by objectors, including ‘ruining the identity and character of Largs as home of independent pubs, cafes and shops’, ‘excessive opening hours’, ‘no provision for parking or loading’ and a lack of refuse storage’, were all considered to be either acceptable or matters which are not dealt with by planners.

Council officials did accept there were significant issues with a planned outdoor seating area. Transport Scotland objected to the proposed development on the grounds of pedestrian safety and the need to move the existing bus shelter.

Wetherspoon did suggest an alternative location for the shelter but this was rejected by the council as it would have been at the ‘wrong end’ of the bus bay. Planners also questioned the refuse storage area, which was not in keeping with the design and appearance of the existing building.

Officials did note that they had received support for the project. Backers stated that a new pub would ‘encourage competition and raise the standards of existing businesses’ and ‘The proposed development would inject much needed investment into the town centre and would be beneficial to residents and visitors to the town’.

The report did point out that the company had stated 15 full-time and 35 part-time jobs would be created.

As we reported last week, Eddie Gershon, of Wetherspoon, said: “We respect the views of the planning authority. However, we are still keen to open a bar/restaurant in Largs, and we will decide whether to submit a new application in due course.”