A supermarket giant is looking at building a new store in Liskeard.

Cornwall Council has confirmed Sainsbury's is considering the site of the former Caradon Council offices at Luxstowe House as a potential location for a store.

Although many people would welcome a new supermarket in the town, some think the location in question is unsuitable.

Liskeard mayor Anne Purdon said: 'I am all in favour of a Sainsbury's store coming to town but not at the site at Luxstowe House because it isn't big enough. It would have to be somewhere on the edge of the town. It would be good because we do need competition.'

A Cornwall Council spokeswoman said: 'The council is aware of Sainsbury's interest in strengthening its presence in Cornwall and it is continuing to look at appropriate land across the county. Several of the targeted areas involve land that now is owned by Cornwall Council.

'Council-owned land in Liskeard could be a target. It is important to stress, however, that the council has not made any decisions to sell any of its sites at the current time.'

Liskeard's mayor-elect Tony Powell said: 'I very much hope that this is not the start of Cornwall Council selling off the family silver in the hope of replenishing its depleted coffers. The important factor in any development of Luxstowe, especially as a retail site, is that of the community benefit. They need to learn the lesson that you have to carry support with you and not dictate at a distance – we must be included in discussions on our future.'

A spokeswoman for Sainsbury's said: 'Sainsbury's has no confirmed plans, at the moment, for Liskeard.

'However, we are committed to expanding our store portfolio in the South West. 

'Our agents are always looking for development opportunities and are often in discussions with landowners with regards to potential sites.'

n The Waitrose store in Saltash has completed its refurbishment and re-opens tomorrow following the completion of a multi-million pound extension.

The store, which is now nearly double the size it was before and has a coffee shop, has created 35 new jobs.