The retail giant has been given the go-ahead for the extension for a second time after the time limit for work starting ran out.

Patrick Kelly, North Lanarkshire's head of planning, told councillors the development will "virtually double" the size of the John Street store. Planning permission was originally granted in September 2005.

Mr Kelly explained: "The existing petrol station, car wash and kiosk would be demolished to increase car parking as would properties in Hunter Street. The store's car park would increase from 215 to 356 spaces."

There were two objections to the fresh application – one from the doctors at John Street Surgery which could be demolished and another from Scottish Power which has a sub-station in the vicinity.

Mr Kelly said the doctors lease their ground from the council.

Morrisons will either seek to buy this or the Hunter Street properties to accommodate the extension.

The Scottish Power objection is deemed not to be a material planning consideration and, rather, is seen as a legal matter between Morrisons and the energy group.

Mr Kelly told councillors on the planning and development committee Morrisons want extra time to draw up detailed proposals before work starts. He regarded the request as ``reasonable''.

Bellshill councillor Richard Lyle welcomed what he considered was Morrisons' renewed commitment to its expansion in the town.

Rival superstore Tesco, meanwhile, also has planning permission for a Bellshill development dating back several years.

Tesco intends to build a new store on ground in North Road, behind Main Street, and last year had to quash rumours that it was backing out of the project.