A BOLTON-born boss of retailers Argos has slammed a decision to reject a new store at Middlebrook as "illogical".

The new store at the retail park would create up to 60 new jobs, but Bolton Council has refused to lift a condition preventing the sale of toys, jewellery and fashion accessories which, Argos says, would have been important to the store's success.

Peter Jones, who was born in the town, and who is now operational manager for the national chain of stores, has spoken out about the decision.

He said: "I am confused, frustrated and disappointed."

He claims the decision is "illogical" because the same type of goods are on sale at Next and at Asda within 100 yards of the proposed shop, which would have been in the former Powerhouse store.

Mr Jones, who was born in Breightmet and is a keen Wanderers supporter despite living in southern England, said: "We are quite frustrated. We don't always get our way with planning applications, but this one has left us confused and disappointed."

After leaving school, Mr Jones ran a grocery store in Crompton Way with his father and has been in the retail business ever since, joining Argos four years ago.

One objection against the new store was that Argos would take business away from Horwich town centre. But Mr Jones said: "It does not make any sense. We are selling things that are already available at Middlebrook. I came to Horwich two weeks ago and the town centre is still serving the community."

Mr Jones added: "There is free parking at Middlebrook and it would have been convenient for some of our shoppers. We sell furniture and other bulky items and it would have been convenient for them to be near their cars."

The company may appeal agains the planners' decision although that was not certain, said Mr Jones.

Bolton Council was unavailable for comment.