A SUPERMARKET giant has returned in renewed its bid to open a store in a protected building in Virginia Water.

Sainsbury’s has reapplied for planning permission as it hopes to alter the former Barclays bank site, in Station Approach, to open one of the brand’s Local convenience stores.

Councillor Nick Wase-Rogers, who represents the Virginia Water ward on Runnymede Borough Council, said: “From a personal point of view I would be rather upset with Sainsbury’s opening there for a number of reasons.

“I think it’s rather unfair on other shops in the area and I don’t think Virginia Water needs a Sainsbury’s.

“There are a number of reasons to oppose it -– what we need in Virginia Water is a bank.”

Barclays had been based in the building for 80 years before it closed in June last year.

This new application by Sainsbury’s follows the company’s withdrawal of a similar proposal in December 2014.

Runnymede Borough Council’s conservation officer said the original application was unacceptable due to "brash and unnecessary" elements of the plan while Surrey County Council had recommended its refusal on the grounds of highway safety.

Two planning applications have been submitted by Sainsbury’s this time around. The first is to make external alterations, comprising shopfront amendments, including the provision of a cash machine, security bollards, a new entrance ramp, railings, changes to the doors and other works including relocating a door and a purpose-built plant area.

The other application proposes to display two illuminated signs.

Sainsbury’s has not yet acquired the lease to the property and there is currently a restrictive covenant on the property controlled by the Wentworth Estate Roads Committee.

This covenant limits what can be done to the building and any alterations to the building must only be done with the committee’s consent.

According to the application, the new store will bring with it five new full-time employees and 20 part-time employees.

A Sainsbury’s spokesman said: “We have submitted plans for a new convenience shop in Virginia Water and are engaging with the local community and council on our proposals.

“The plans will bring back into use a vacant building, generate new local jobs and help increase footfall on the parade benefitting existing and new businesses.”