AN empty city pub could become a convenience store after a supermarket firm has renewed its interest in the site.

Tesco has re-launched a bid to turn the vacant Malmesbury Arms on Wilton Road into an Express store, extending the building to the rear.

Two first-floor flats will be lost if the plans are approved.

Previous proposals submitted in 2013 and 2014 were withdrawn following discussions with Wiltshire Council.

In its latest application, Tesco said the “smaller convenience stores sector has grown considerably”.

Just one resident has objected so far. Nikki Benns, who lives opposite the pub on Wilton Road, wrote to the council with “strong reservations” about the proposal.

Mrs Benns said: “The presence of Tesco on this already busy stretch of road will be too much.”

She said there were too many junctions in the area, and any increase in traffic trying to join Wilton Road would be “disastrous”.

Other concerns included noise, light pollution, and access problems for delivery lorries.

Division councillor John Walsh said: “The possibility that a Tesco Express will be coming to Wilton Road will improve the shopping offer which is to be welcomed.

“I do however have concerns about the increase of traffic on this busy road and the increased chance of an accident in the area, because of the numerous road junctions.”