KIDLINGTON Parish Council says it remains confident it could fight off any further plans to cut the size of the village Co-op supermarket if plans come forward again.

In February, plans to slash the size of the existing supermarket and build 52 flats in its place were refused by Cherwell District Council following an intervention from the parish.

It was the second time plans had been put forward following initial approval, which was subsequently successfully appealed by the parish council.

Kidlington parish councillor Alan Graham has said if developers were still looking to build at the site in High Street, the authority need to be convinced it would not take away the necessary retail needs to cater to the potential influx of residents.

However, despite the supermarket having a right to appeal, there has been no word so far.

And following the implementation of the Kidlington masterplan, which sets out future development in the area, the parish council now believes it would have solid grounds to rebuff any further applications.

Mr Graham added: "It was refused planning permission after the Kidlington masterplan was passed in December which gave them [the parish] a better handle.

"It wouldn’t have gone through in the first place if the masterplan had been approved beforehand. There was a bit of bureaucratic coming and going but eventually they came to the right decision.

"It was ultimately refused due to the loss of retail and that was the particular issue raised by the masterplan."

With the prospect of 4,400 homes being built around Kidlington to help meet Oxford's unmet housing need, as designated in the Cherwell Local Plan, Mr Graham says it is more important than ever to ensure there are enough shops for residents.

Part of the plans facing Kidlington currently include the possibility of 4,400 homes being built around the village in a bid to help support Oxford's unmet housing needs.

As a result, Mr Graham says it is important the supermarket is not reduced in size.

He said: "There is a lot more housing proposed around Kidlington and it would be unfortunate to loss such retail space right at the high street part of area of Kidlington.

"I would personally prefer not to see the loss of retail space but it is very difficult to say what I would like to see happen there. I do not know what other options there are that could justify the loss of retail space and not be contrary to the masterplan.

"It needs to be a positive addition to local businesses and the community."

Applicants Midcounties Cooperative were unable to comment on the plans and whether it would be submitted for appeal.