A PARISH poll has been called over controversial plans to build a supermarket in Barnoldswick - but a decision could have been made before it takes place.

The poll, which will cost around £2,500, is due to take place on April 10.

But Pendle's West Craven Committee is due to make a decision on the outline application at a meeting on April 1, meaning it could be approved in principle.

The parish poll was called after concerns were raised over the supermarket, planned for the Butts, at Barnoldswick's annual town meeting last week.

The application has been submitted by Maple Grove Developments without a particular store in mind.

Resident Gillian Lee called for the poll. She said: "There is a lot of controversy about the development. The only fair way to approach this is to let the people of Barnoldswick have their say."

But Coun David Whipp said the final decision on the application would be taken on planning policies and government guidance, not on the outcome of a town poll.

He said: "One hundred per cent of the town could be against it, but it could still be allowed at the end of the day."

The majority of concerns raised over the supermarket were that it would lead to the decline of the small shops already in Barnoldswick.

Resident Harry Purcell said there was "not a town in England" that had not been destroyed by a supermarket. He said: "There is no doubt about it that it would destroy Barnoldswick if it goes ahead."

The scheme to build the supermarket on the Butts involves relocating the current occupants of the site, Carlson Filtration, and creating a purpose-built 4,645 square metre store.

The parish poll is due to be held on Thursday April 10. Residents can vote between 4pm and 9pm at the usual polling stations. No polling cards will be sent out and there will be no postal votes.

Notices of the poll will be displayed on the parish notice boards