PLANS for a new cinema, gym and six restaurants in Longbridge have been scrapped, in favour of a discount supermarket.

Cinema chain The Light and fitness operator The Gym had already signed up to be part of phase three of St Modwen's £1billion regeneration of Longbridge town centre - just a 15-minute drive from central Bromsgrove.

But the developer has now dropped the plans, which were approved last year, and submitted a new proposal to Birmingham City Council to turn 1.2 acres of land next to Austin Avenue into a 'deep discount food store' and 110 parking spaces.

The application reads: "As the development has evolved, it has been necessary to re-evaluate the specific use of some of the development plots and how they should best relate to the new town centre – particular plots, when referenced back to the original master plan, were suggested as particular uses.

"This process has, quite rightly, when set against ever-changing market conditions, suggested that some plots should be development in relation to the most appropriate use for the period in which development will take place."

No specific retailer is named in the plans, but St Modwen does say operators have already expressed interest.

The new shop, St Modwen claims, would compliment the existing offer in Longbridge town centre, which includes Sainsbury's and Marks & Spencer, create a 'bookend' to the heart of Longbridge, and benefit 'less affluent shoppers'.

Chris Newsome, development director at St Modwen, said: “As part of our ongoing regeneration plans in Longridge, St Modwen has submitted an outline planning application that could welcome a popular discount food operator to Longbridge.

“We’re keen to explore our options and find the right fit for the town centre that reflects the current market position.

"The proposed plans would complement the existing offer in town centre, providing customers with a wider selection of shopping options.”

The scheme is expected to create 40 full and part-time jobs.