Opinion is divided over plans to build a branch of B&M in Cockermouth.

The household goods retailer wants to open a branch behind the Lakes Home Centre on Low Road.

Traders in the town fear the move could harm town centre businesses, encouraging people to shop on the edge of town where there is free parking.

But others in the town have welcomed the move, saying it will help people access low-cost goods without going to other towns.

Commenting on the plans on Facebook, Sylvia Thompson Douglas Smyth said: "We want a B&M. I'm sick of having to go Workington. Cockermouth prices are too high. What about people on low income? Cockermouth trying to be posh and impress but it's not we have our younger generation to think of."

Gemma Hields replied: "Cockermouth shop prices are ridiculous and at most places we are paying double the prices for things we need. B&M would be great in Cockermouth especially for those that can't get out of Cockermouth and those on a tighter budget than others."

Ruth Constable said: "Maybe they should be looking at how high the rent is on these shops. Maybe if they lower the rent they can afford to keep the shops open. Look around. If you have a strong community they will keep going to the small shops. Wasn't there a big kick off when Wilko came to town? Funny how Firns the hardware shop is still going strong. It's got nothing to do with low income families, it's called having a choice."

But Raven Pixie Williamson said: "B&M will kill off Cockermouth town centre, it will end up a ghost town. At present it's attraction is as a gem town with independent boutique shops and old fashioned ironmongers etc. There's already a Wilko if you want cheap cleaning products. B&M sells very little else other than a wider variety of cheap tat.

"We already have a Starbucks on the outskirts cutting out the town centre cafés, be very careful what you wish for.

"What is it about this area is it that makes it a great place to live? If you would like the idea of big discount chains on your doorstep then does it not make sense for those people to live in somewhere more suited to their requirements than to ruin what is one of the only remaining gem towns in the country?"

Bekah Bragg replied: "A lot of people go to B&M for much more than just cleaning products!! And not everyone can afford to go out of Cockermouth to get to these cheaper stores. It's not all about tourists.

"Also I'm sure Wordsworth House for one is a big enough attraction for tourists. I doubt they are coming here for the small shops."

Livy Bremner said: "When traders are forced to close and shops are empty I wonder how many are going to say that B&M was a good idea? It won't stop at just one store, you are opening the planning doors for an indefinite number. I'm not just saying this as a trader but I am saying this as a resident. Who wants to live in a town full of empty shops?"

Allerdale council is considering