A SUPERMARKET chain has refused to comment on possible plans to open a store in a town centre location which has stood vacant for more than two years.

The former Safeway store, in Northallerton High Street, was one of almost 500 outlets bought by Morrison's for £3bn in 2004.

Morrison's - the UK's fourth largest supermarket group - sold off unwanted stores and the Northallerton branch, which employed 45 people, closed in September 2005, but remained under the company's ownership.

Morrison's says no decisions have been made over what to do with the site, which has become rundown.

A spokesman for the Bradford-based company said: "Morrison's is still in ownership of the building. The company is reviewing its position and no decisions have yet been made with regard to the Northallerton site.

"No planning application has been submitted to the local authority."

Concerns have been expressed that the site remaining derelict could have a negative affect for traders in Northallerton.

Town and district councillor John Coulson said he would welcome any plans to open a supermarket at the site.

He said: " The former Safeway site is too much of a prime location not to be developed.

"If it becomes a supermarket again, then I will be pleased to see it. It is getting to be an eyesore. It has been damaging to the High Street, the state it has been in."

Jim Turnbull, former chairman of Northallerton Chamber of Trade, said: "It is a prime site and it is not doing that end of the High Street any good.

"I am sure if it was filled it would increase the footfall and make that end of the town a bit more vibrant. The sooner it is back in use, the better."

An unidentified retailer's proposal to build a supermarket on the town's Applegarth car park was rejected by councillors earlier this year.

Hambleton District Council threw out the offer to buy the car park, the largest open space in Northallerton.