Late in 2009, Neptune also submitted a planning application to change the use for two units next to the new Morrisons supermarket which will “anchor” the scheme to allow additional retail units.

The new plans are for two units which open on to the car park in front of the Morrisons – which Neptune said leisure developers are not keen on, but retail developers prefer.

The planning application says they will continue to market these units to leisure operators, but “interest in these two units continues to be worryingly negligible” for those types of uses.

However, it added that interest has been expressed by Argos, Pets at Home, Next, TK Maxx, Sports Direct and B&M Bargains, among others.

In November, Neptune Developments Director Rob Mason insisted the basic aims of the schemes were not changing, and the amendment to the plans was approved by Wirral Council as landlord last year and they were now seeking planning permission.

A report which will be presented to Wirral Council’s planning committee recommends the application be approved.

The report said: “With conditions to control the future use and floorspace of the buildings in question, the grant of planning permission can be justified.”

The planning committee is due to meet on January 7 to make a final decision on the proposals.