TESCO has been given the go-ahead to sell more non-food goods at its Trowbridge branch, while shoppers will be allowed to leave their cars at the store while they go into town.

The supermarket chain has already started work on a mezzanine level at the County Way store and plans to sell an increased range of non-food items, which could include clothing, electronics or household goods.

Planning permission to allow more floor space for the sale of comparison' goods was granted by West Wiltshire District Council's planning committee on Thursday. The application had previously been deferred for more information on car parking issues and the potential impact on shops in Trowbridge.

Cllr Trevor Carbin said: "I think we have got some positive results from the deferral. I am happy to support the application now."

The supermarket giant has agreed to provide directional signs to the town centre and has made arrangements to limit the disruption to car parking during the work.

A plan has been produced to allow a dedicated parking area for Tesco's dot.com delivery vehicles. While work is carried out a temporary multi-deck car park will be put up for dot.com and staff vehicles.

After that the store plans a number plate recognition system to prevent abuse of the car park, while allowing a maximum stay of two-and-a-half hours. The store also agreed to place a limit on the amount of space used to sell comparison' goods.

Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce has backed the project. John Elliot, president of the association, said the supermarket had agreed to invest in the town centre and he did not believe the plan would affect other retailers.

"In short Trowbridge needs Tesco and Tesco needs Trowbridge," he said. But some councillors remained unconvinced. Cllr Tom James said: "I have no problems with Tesco except that I think they are good for Tesco, that is their job.

"The job of the chamber is for the good of all the traders in Trowbridge and I don't see how this is. "I can't support it and I think there will be consequences for years to come." Councillors voted in favour of granting planning permission by a majority of 12 to four.