The site where Ross Labels has been successfully trading for the past 15 years could be sold to the highest bidder, possibly a food retailer, if an appeal against the recent refusal of planning permission for development on the former BP petrol filling station site is unsuccessful, says the owner, Angie Ellis. The planning application to develop the site was refused by the Southern Area Planning sub-Committee at their meeting on Wednesday, January 24th. Staff at Ross Labels were informed about the plans just before the information was given to the press. Ms Ellis confirmed to The Ross Gazette that it is Labels' intention to appeal against the decision although this could take many months - possibly a year - to complete. They will also seek costs from Hereford Council. She also said that there had been interest in the site and that if this sale went ahead, the business, as it is at present, along with the proposed Outlet Shopping Town concept - would move to a new location, possibly Monmouth. Angie Ellis told the Gazette: "We are considering several options in this respect, although it is probable that, subject to successful negotiations, Ross Labels will be re-established on the outskirts of Monmouth." She said: "The site itself - situated on the northbound carriageway of the A449 - has long been considered an eyesore at the gateway to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it was our intention to dramatically improve this visual aspect. "The development and upgrade of the site is an absolute necessity for the long-term sustainability of Ross Labels in Ross on Wye: it is imperative that we continue to significantly maintain our business' growth trend. Clearly, our proposal to introduce national brand retailers (to the site) is critical to this growth." The application for a McDonalds restaurant was part of the retail park but Angie Ellis pointed out that as this is a replacement for the French Hen it could be built without further planning permission. Although Councillors at the Southern Area Planning sub-Committee had agreed that Ross Labels was of benefit to the town they were concerned that further large stores would have a negative impact on the shopping centre of Ross. Ms Ellis referred to the objector at the planning meeting who said that "Ross Labels should put their money where their mouth is", suggesting that the development could be established in the town itself, rather than on their own site. However plans for a European-style Outlet Shopping concept within Ross is dependant on funding which would be secured by incorporating other retailers onto the Labels site. Ms Ellis pointed out that in the 15 years since Ross Labels replaced an ailing country superstore business it had prospered, maturing into a popular and successful shopping destination, employing over 80 people, attracting almost one million visitors each year, and contributing substantially to the local economy.