Aldi and Simply Food retail park in Cumbernauld is given the green light

The decision means that 200 new jobs will be created when a new seven-unit shoppping parade is created in the shadow of Broadwood Stadium.

This will also include a pub and a drive-through Starbucks.

A total of 50 construction jobs will be created when work starts later this year.

And the precinct is expected to be open by January 2018.

The site had originally been earmarked for a branch of Morrison’s which had promised to bring hundreds of jobs to the town.

However, the supermarket itself pulled out because of falling profit margins.

Developer Bryan Wilson of L&S Broadwood said: “We believe this local neighbourhood centre will be a tremendous asset for the people living on the other side of the M80 who currently have very few local amenities.

Local councillor Bob Chadha who spoke at the meeting said: “The site was lying derelict and was ideal for retail development.

“I also received dozens of emails and letters of support from residents supporting the proposal.”