A STALLED scheme to build 332 homes in Lydney is back on track – but only if a new supermarket is built in the town, according to developers.

Robert Hitchins Ltd have been given more time to forge ahead with a 53-acre development off the Lydney Bypass.

Developers were first given planning permission in 2008 but ran out of time after the economic downturn made the scheme unviable.

Now, they have been given more time to build the homes and a neighbourhood centre on the land between Naas Lane and the A48.

But the developers say they might have to put the scheme on hold for even longer, unless permission for a Sainsbury's store is granted.

Land and planning director Andrew Hill said Hitchins are keen to get started on the scheme which would bring hundreds of jobs and economic benefits to Lydney.

But the Sainsbury's application, which is expected to be heard in July, is a fundamental part of the overall proposals.

Councillor James Bevan (Con, Lydney) said: "We do need to kick start this development. This is a part of Lydney that needs developing because it has access.

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