Plans for an Asda store in Bradford look set to be given the go-ahead despite a 520-name petition opposing the scheme.

The proposal for a store off Cemetery Road took a step forward when Bradford Council planners recommended the development for approval subject to a section 106 legal agreement.

Councillors were due to vote on the plans at tomorrow’s meeting of the Bradford area planning panel.

The scheme, which includes a 38,000 sq ft sales area store, is set to create up to 350 full and part-time jobs for local people.

Asda has also pledged to set up a Local Employment Partnership targeting local job seekers.

The development, on a brownfield site, will feature landscaping, a new access road, highways improvements and a petrol station.

Philip Bartram, property communications manager for Asda, said: “We are delighted that Bradford Council planners have recommended our application for approval.

“Since we announced our proposals for a new store last year, we have received fantastic support from the local community and from many local people seeking employment.”

The site is located to the east of Cemetery Road and currently comprises two buildings. One is the former MFI building and the other is the Bookers Cash and Carry.

The Council has received 17 letters objecting to the proposal and two petitions.

One of the petitions, containing 520 signatures, opposes the proposal while the other, containing 169 signatures, supports the scheme.