Fears that the expansion of a shop could putting existing High Street retailers at risk has been backed by Braintree Council.

Alison Jennings, town centre regeneration manager, made the claim in response to a planning application to extend the former Julian Graves shop in George Yard by 59 metres square.

Developers are applying for change of use to turn the unit into a coffee shop but objectors claim this would narrow part of Sandpit Lane to an alleyway and dissuade people from walking down there.

Ms Jennings said: “This planning application proposal will have a significant impact on the regeneration of the High Street by encroaching onto the entrance to Sandpit Lane, and reducing the visibility of Sandpit lane and High Street from George Yard.

“The reduced access up Sandpit Lane and in to George Yard and vice versa will further reduce footfall traffic movements in the High Street, therefore putting the trading environment of Sandpit Lane and High Street traders at risk in a challenging economic environment.

“This is evidenced by the recent closure on 31st May 2013 of Turner and Danby at 118 High Street, Braintree, who have cited the lack of footfall at that end of the High Street as being a key issue which has contributed to the decline of their business and its operation.”