Plans to build a huge Sainsbury’s store were thrown out despite a petition of almost 2,000 signatures supporting the proposals.

Last night members of Braintree Council’s planning committee went with officers’ recommendations and voted to refuse the planning application for the Broomhills Industrial Estate, which would create 400 jobs.

About 100 people, many of whom were in support of the plans, went to the meeting.

Arguments for and against the plans were raised by both councillors and members of the public. 

The majority of councillors chose to support Braintree Council's policy to protect the town centre. 

Following the meeting a Sainsbury’s spokesman described the decision as disappointing and said a further announcement will be made in the coming weeks.