Proposals for a multi-million pound Tesco development on Welshpool's former livestock market site in Mill Lane have been given the go-ahead by Powys county planners.

The planners agreed it will bring much needed improvements and employment for the town.

The plans include a supermarket, non-food retail outlets, a canalside cafe/restaurant, a petrol station and parking for more than 400 vehicles on the Mill Lane site, close to the town centre.

Mr Arfon Hughes, for Tesco, told yesterday's Powys County Council planning meeting in Welshpool: "There has been a lot of consultation with residents, other groups, councillors and planning officers to achieve a layout that everyone is now happy with."

He added that the scheme "will provide much-needed improvements to the town's shopping opportunities and will be a major provider of employment and jobs in Welshpool".

It is expected that about 400 new jobs will be made available by the scheme.

The redevelopment of the Smithfield site is part of on-going regeneration of Welshpool that will see the lives- tock market close on the present Mill Lane site next month and reopen for business at Buttington Cross just outside the town on November 6.

Welshpool town clerk Mr Robert Robinson said: "We are in full support of this development."

Councillor Francesca Jump said a lot of time had been spent on getting the development right.

Planning consent conditions will cover lighting, noise and drainage issues.