Now construction is expected to start next year at the Bellerby Theatre site.

Some 30 flats will be built above the store, long with 18 affordable homes and three town houses nearby.

The plans include demolishing the Bellerby Theatre, Live and Let Live pub and an existing community centre.

Nigel Keen, Waitrose director of development, said: “This is a great opportunity to revitalise a largely derelict site with a much needed food store in the town centre as well as providing quality new homes and a brand new community centre with upgraded facilities.”