Building work is due to be completed in 2007

Stall holders at the existing indoor market and planners have compromised over the layout following months of bitter arguments.

Carmarthenshire councillors have given unanimous backing in principle to the proposal - the seventh in two years.

The chamber of trade believes it will bring more visitors to the town.

It should improve the number of visitors to the town and of course provide some much better leisure facilities Ron Mounsey, chamber of trade

The cattle mart site has been empty for more than three years since it relocated to Nantyci.

Plans to redevelop the site were first drawn up in 2002 but 60,000 signed a petition opposing the scheme as it involved the relocation of the indoor provisions market.

The latest plan keeps the market in virtually the same position it now occupies, retaining the landmark clock tower.

There will be an in-depth traffic study to look at the impact on surround streets.

'Upheaval'

Debenhams will occupy the department store. Building work will be done in phases starting with a multi-storey car park for 1,000.

All construction is scheduled to be completed within three years.

Ron Mounsey of the chamber of trade said: "There will be some upheaval and there is concern about the impact on small shops in Nott's Square and King Street but overall I think it will benefit the town.

"It should improve the number of visitors to the town and of course provide some much better leisure facilities."

But butcher Wyn Evans, whose premises will be demolished, said the plans could force him to retire.

The council says it will be offering him an alternative site but he has not yet been told where.

He claims small independent traders are being forced to move to accommodate large national chains.

Carmarthenshire chief executive Mark James said he was very pleased that the new proposal has met with such favour generally.

"We will now continue work looking at the practicalities of implementing this option."