MARKS & Spencer argues the convenience of the scheme is important to the store's “flag- ship offer”.
It has also emphasised the potential regeneration and employment benefits with the store providing the equivalent of 400 permanent full-time jobs with a 150 similar jobs at Christmas.
An M&S spokeswoman said: “We are a responsible store developer and always aim to factor in what's best for the communities we operate in as a whole.
“Obviously we are very disappointed that Chester should object to these plans.
“We believe that the impact on Chester of the proposed M&S store at Cheshire Oaks is very minimal.
“Ellesmere Port has a great deal to gain in the form of hundreds of jobs, significant road improvements and a new store would be a vote of confidence which we hope will also attract other businesses to the area.”
