The planners have made their long awaited decision on the new multi million pound Marks and Spencer foodhall for Largs.

It will replace the site of the existing Pearson Suzuki showroom and repairs business, and Stewarts Associates in 123-125 Main Street.

The plans involve a new 9000 square feet foodhall - offering customers over five thousand food and drink products.

Cllr Tom Marshall said: "This is good news for Largs and will enhance the all round shopping experience and I hope it will provide additional spin offs for the Largs high street."

As recently reported, M&S has also revealed the creation of 50 new, full-time jobs to boost the local economy, as part of the development plan.

Their proposed site would replace the existing business run by Pearson Suzuki, who plan to consolidate operations with their Wemyss Bay site to retain all current jobs, while Stewart Associates is set to move to a new premises in Bath Street, and will also retain its workforce.

The new M&S Foodhall marks a big investment in the local area and is designed with customers and local families at its heart.

Subject to planning consent, the store will have a distinctive fresh market feel, the addition of new and exciting in-store features and thousands of M&S’s products.

This includes everything from daily essentials and fresh produce from Scottish M&S Select Farms to dinner and ready-to-go family meals.

The Foodhall’s proposed central location on Main Street means it would be easily accessible to customers via public transport, car, cycling or foot. There are also plans for dedicated car and cycle parking in front of the store.

The blueprint includes dedicated car parking to the front and a separate service yard to the side, both to be accessed off a new in-and-out junction onto Main Street.

David Bates, Regional Manager for M&S said, “We believe that Largs is the ideal location to open a new M&S Foodhall and we’re excited at the prospect of making a new home here.

“We want to provide our local customers with a brilliant and inspiring shopping experience in a convenient and accessible location.”