By Patrick LowmanA PLAN to open a £1.2million “superpub” in a town centre looks likely to be given the go-ahead despite furious opposition from publicans.

By Patrick Lowman

A PLAN to open a £1.2million “superpub” in a town centre looks likely to be given the go-ahead despite furious opposition from publicans.

Landlords in Sudbury have been campaigning against JD Wetherspoon's plan to open the new pub and restaurant complex in the town's North Street, warning that it would put them out of business.

But Babergh District Council planning officers have recommended the plan should be approved, subject to a number of conditions.

JD Wetherspoon's wants to turn the Co-op store in North Street into one of its Lloyds No 1 outlets, which will cater for up to 800 customers.

The new outlets are similar to the traditional Wetherspoon pubs, but cater for a younger clientele and include entertainment such as music, televised sporting events and dance floors.

The plan includes turning the ground floor into a pub, café and restaurant with flats on the first floor.

A report to go before the council's development committee on Wednesday said: “The Co-op is due to close this year regardless of these proposals and an existing employment opportunity will be lost.

“The proposed development represents considerable investment in Sudbury town centre and would significantly enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area.”

Publicans in the town have joined forces to fight the plan and Duncan Tuhey, who runs the Prince of Wales pub and is leading the campaign, said: “This pub could cater for up to 800 people at a time, which will destroy many of the smaller pubs.

“If I lose just 20% of my trade, I will be out of business and I know many others will be in the same boat.

“I don't think it is right to destroy the future of many lovely pubs that have served the town for many years for the sake of one superpub.”

patrick.lowman@eadt.co.uk