Objectors to a planned new Sainsbury’s superstore on the outskirts of a town have welcomed a unanimous decision to turn it down.

Planners agreed that allowing the superstore and industrial park would mean “selling the soul” of Skipton and would destroy its unique qualities.

Malcolm Weaving, owner of the town’s Rendezvous Hotel and spokesman for Save Skipton, said he was “over the moon” at the decision of Craven District Council.

A packed planning meeting heard independent retail expert Martin Tonks advise against supporting the Wyvern Park scheme because of its significant adverse impact on the High Street, resulting in possible shop closures.

Ben Ward, regional manager of developers Henry Boot, said how disappointed the company was to have its application recommended for refusal by officers.