14 February 2013 Last updated at 06:56 ET

Protesters fear Leighton Buzzard retail parks will 'kill high street'

Protesters said the proposed retail park would "kill the high street"

Plans for one of two retail parks on the outskirts of Leighton Buzzard have been approved by the council, despite a campaign against it.

Central Bedfordshire councillors have backed proposals for the smaller of two schemes suggested for Grovebury Road, south of the town.

They said the plan for a DIY unit, four other shops and a restaurant could "bring benefits" to the town.

Protesters said councillors had "betrayed" the town centre.

Environmental campaigner Victoria Harvey said she was "incredibly disappointed".

She said: "Shops are likely to move out to the out-of-town retail park, and then why would other shops want to move into Leighton Buzzard [High Street]?"

The Claymore Group said: "Our guiding principle from the outset of this project has been to offer real retail choice which complements the town centre rather than competes with it."