MILFORD Haven town council has backed plans for a drive-through Costa Coffee store near the town's Marina.

The proposals, which could create nine new jobs if they are given planning permission, were examined by councillors on Monday night.

The discussion followed a request to the county council to extend the deadline during which town councillors could comment on the proposals.

Several members raised concerns about the impact on coffee shops in the town centre, but Cllr Colin Sharp - speaking on behalf of one of his constituents - said: "Did anyone object when Foam opened? Did Tesco complain when Iceland came?

"Any business bringing jobs is positive, and surely more big names coming to Milford is a good thing."

Cllr Eric Harries said he passed the derelict Quay Stores site every day, and it was currently a "disgrace".

"I shudder when I come from Milford train station and see people who are visiting the town for the first time being greeted by that site," he said.

But, he added, it was vital the council only dealt with the proposals on "planning grounds and nothing else".

A petition started by Byron Jenkins, chairman of the town's business circle, objecting to the proposals was dismissed by Cllr Tony Eden.

"127 signatures out of a population of 14,000 is not a lot," he said.

"The people I have spoken to are mainly in favour."