Key element of Portas plan is rejected

The Government will shy away from implementing one of the most controversial recommendations of Mary Portas, the TV presenter, for all out-of-town retail developments to be approved by ministers.

Apart from rejecting the proposal, the Department for Communities and Local Government will say today that it plans to implement in full, or partially, the other 27 recommendations made by Ms Portas, the self-styled Queen of Shops.

The Government's decision to pass on the proposal to introduce an "exceptional sign off" for all new out-of-town developments will come as a huge relief to larger retailers, particularly the big supermarkets.