Residents of Chipping Norton have successfully blocked a bid by Sainsbury’s to build an out-of-town supermarket.

Councillors on West Oxfordshire District Council’s planning committee ruled Sainsbury’s proposed 30,000 sq ft store was unwelcome, despite the chain receiving backing from a support group, Chippy Residents in Support of Progress.

Planning officers said developments in the area should be in the town centre wherever possible. Sainsbury’s has a 5,000 sq ft store in the town and had hoped to replace it.

“We are obviously disappointed with the decision as there is public support for our proposals,” said a Sainsbury’s spokesman.

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