THE future of the proposed Waitrose development in Droitwich once again hangs in the balance, after it was announced it will cost taxpayers a lot more than previously thought.

The supermarket giant is being paid by Wychavon District Council to build the store. In return, Waitrose will then rent the building and land.

But councillors have been told the original estimate for construction was way below the mark.

The new sum, which has not been revealed, is "significantly higher".

Many councillors are now calling for the figures to be released to the public and are cautious about accepting the condition.

Councillor Roy Seabourne described the move as "emotional blackmail".

"I have seen the numbers and what we have been faced with is a very large increase," he said.

"For Waitrose to come to us at this late stage and demand this extra money is nothing short of emotional blackmail.

"I, and several of my colleagues, have not been convinced by the reasons given for the increase and we would like to see more proof of the need for the extra money."

The decision on whether to accept the increase is due to be taken by Wychavon Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee next Monday, November 24.

If the council approves the revised arrangements, legal documents will be finalised and ready for signing by the end of this month.

This means that work on the site could begin in January.

Council leader Martin Jennings is confident the development will go ahead.

Frustrating

"While the delay is frustrating, we are determined to make sure Droitwich Spa town centre will be rejuvenated and will hugely benefit from the investment of Waitrose," he said.

"The resolution of these problems is very good news for residents and traders."

The new store, due be completed by spring 2005 if all goes well, will include a coffee shop, cash machines, toilets and an extended car park.