Developers Kilmac launched an application for a large 22,000 square foot retail unit and two 12,000 square foot units with 172 car parking spaces, and junction improvements at the Brechin Road site.

The site had previously been the intended location for a Sainsbury’s store until the was abandoned in 2015.

Home Bargains has been secured for the lead unit.

Despite local opposition over fears of potential impact on Montrose town centre shops, Angus Council’s development standards committee unanimously backed the conditional approval recommendation of planning officials.

Derek Ross of Kilmac told the committee the Home Bargains store should bring around 50 jobs to the town, with around 20/30 posts in the two smaller units.