Exclusive by JOEL SAWYER

A STORE war has started between the borough council and a retail company which was hoping to bring its brand to the streets of Warrington.

The famous Lancashire retail store B&M was planning on redeveloping the former Currys store site on Time Square.

But the development, which could create up to 70 jobs in the town, is on hold because of a disputed historical trading restriction.

Despite having received planning permission and agreed lease terms with the existing landlords, the company claims the borough council, which owns the freehold on the property, has an historic trading restriction on the sale of food from the site.

It was imposed 20 years ago and was intended to last for 10 years, but B&M is "surprised and concerned" that the council are "refusing" to lift the restriction, which served to protect certain traders from the indoor market from competition.

B&M claims it only sells a limited range of fresh produce like bread, eggs and milk and would not affect other traders.

Instead, it claims it would attract up to 15,000 customers each week.

Stuart Greenwood, chief executive of B&M, said: "We remain optimistic that this can be resolved and look forward to the lifting of this restriction as B&M will make a significant contribution to Warrington town centre."

Martin Wright, Assistant Director of Environment and Regeneration, said: "The Council has been involved in discussions with B&M and welcomes their proposed investment in the town.

"As owner of the site and manager of the retail market, the council has no objection to B&M's acquisition of the Curry's lease.

"However, a balance of retail services in the locality is required and it is expected that an appropriate agreement can be achieved with B&M on this matter."