EXTENDING Asda's Runcorn superstore at a cost of £3m has been put on hold - by Halton Council.

The retail giant wants to increase floorspace by around a quarter and alter the road and car parking layout.

Members of the development control committee deferred the planning application on Monday evening because they are not happy with the proposals.

Cllr Rob Polhill, board member for planning, said: "We are concerned over the linkages with Halton Lea. Asda should be part of it and not in isolation. We are supportive of the application but want it to be more pedestrian- friendly. Our officers and engineers hope to speak to Asda about this."

Asda hopes to increase the 6,724sq m store by a further 1,568 sq m on the southwest side.

New access to the store would be created from a filter lane in West Lane instead of the existing roundabout.

Claire Irvine, Asda property communications manager, said: "Naturally, we are disappointed with the committee's decision to defer our application.

"Our proposals would dramatically improve the shopping environment and represent a £3m investment in the area which sends a very positive signal to the commercial world as well as being of great benefit for our shoppers, colleagues and the local community."