A PROPOSED development in Low Prudhoe for a KFC and Aldi store has received the backing of MP Guy Opperman.

A detailed planning application for the first phase of development of a retail park on land south of Princess Way was submitted in November.

The plans outlined included an Aldi, B&M and a drive-thru KFC as well as another unnamed food store and space for a garden centre with external area.

Although Prudhoe Town Council objected to the development at its November meeting, the plans have had widespread public support.

Some councillors believed a new retail park would have a negative impact on Front Street by taking shoppers elsewhere.

But Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman has spoken out in a public video to show his support. He said: “It is going to bring prosperity and jobs and better services to Prudhoe. It’s something that I think can be done in compliment with what’s on the high street on Front Street, but at the same stage it shows Prudhoe moving forward and being an opportunity place with aspiration for new jobs, new prosperity and somewhere which, we all think, we should be proud of.”

County councillor for Prudhoe South, Gordon Stewart, said: “This is a proposal that has been talked about for years, but is now progressing quickly with a promise of a supermarket and other retailers – therefore many new jobs.”

The application is expected to come before the Northumberland County Council strategic planning committee before spring 2019.