THE future expansion of Ross Labels in Herefordshire looks likely to get the go-ahead, with the plans having been sent to Government for the final once-over, writes CATHERINE SHOVLIN.

If the decision matches that of Herefordshire Council's planning officers and southern area sub-committee, the factory outlet would relocate behind its current position and double in size.Construction would start within 21 days

The changes would bring about the arrival of Focus Do It All to the existing store building.

It was feared that if Labels' proposal was not approved it would be forced to move out of the county, taking with it 70 jobs and the benefits it brings to the county's tourism, particularly in Ross-on-Wye. It is thought that Government will not wish to scrutinise the application further.

Existing jobs would be secured and more than 100 new ones created with the store's expansion and the introduction of Focus Do It All.

Officers have been delegated to give permission for the do-it-yourself retail unit to set up business in the current Labels premises, although the company's location is dependant on Labels' application going through successfully too.

Councillors largely welcomed both applications, acknowledging the benefits on the economy and tourism both stores could have.

But it was Councillor Mark Cunningham who felt forced to describe himself as 'the skeleton at the feast' as he raised concerns over the development of the Overross site.

He said: "We are starting to create a rival town centre. This started off as a trojan horse and now it is starting to show its true colours."

He considered the increase in traffic to be a major issue, along with the effect both businesses would have on others in the small market town.

But most councillors agreed that neither would be in direct competition with any of Ross's smaller shops, meeting a different retail need.