The Range has announced it will submit a planning application in the next week to site its southern distribution centre and retail unit in Chippenham.

Plans by the discount furnishings chain, for green fields next to a farm shop on the junction of the A420 and the A350 bypass, have already sparked controversy.

The promise of 1,000 new jobs – 900 in the distribution centre and another 100 in the store – have pleased business leaders and jobseekers.

But the prospect of 75 delivery bays and 24-hour operating has not gone down so well with Cepen Park residents.

More than 150 people have signed a petition objecting to the centre, which would be roughly the size of ten football pitches and has a target opening date of mid-2016.

Elizabeth Kennedy, who lives in Allington, said: “You’ll have lorries trundling up and down 24-7.

"Instead of having a beautiful rural view Cepen Park residents are going to get a monster of a building. And Allington is a conservation area.”

Objections have also been raised about the proposed location.

Alex Simpkin, supply chain manager for The Range, said: “Logistics goes beyond the movement of goods. It is about people, as we need to ensure that our employees can get to work easily and cost-effectively.” 

The proposed colour scheme has already been changed to blend in with surroundings. Another exhibition will be held next year.  

The petition is at rallyagainsttherange.co.uk