A developer has launched an appeal for non-determination of its plans for a Tesco superstore in Barnoldswick.

The move by Liberty Properties comes after a decision on the plan, which is on part of the L&P Springs site near Skipton Road, was deferred by the West Craven Area Committee in March, with a new decision date still to be set.

Liberty Properties says the delay has meant the application has missed the statutory target determination date.

It has, however, stated it would still like West Craven Area Committee to make the decision, even if it means submitting a second similar planning application.

Emyr Williams, development director at Liberty Properties, said: “We originally submitted our application for a new Tesco superstore in November 2011 with a target decision date of February 13. Our scheme went before the West Craven Area Committee in March with a recommendation for approval, but a decision was deferred on the understanding it would then be heard in May alongside Pendle Projects’ application for a supermarket (Aldi).

“We have not been advised of any new committee date, and with time slipping by, we have taken the decision to appeal on grounds of non-determination.

“The objective is to deliver a main food shopping facility for the town as soon as possible.”

The Liberty Properties plans would see 175 new jobs created at a new Tesco store. According to a council planning report compiled in March, 901 people supported the application and there were 567 objections.

Anthony Joyce, managing director for L&P Springs, said: “The Liberty Properties application represents a golden opportunity to see potential further investment in our company. It will help to safeguard 36 jobs at the factory and bring certainty to the funding of our submitted new warehouse application.”