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Waterford — Tractor Supply Co. has plans to open a retail store in Waterford Commons, in the shuttered Babies R Us store.

The Waterford Planning and Zoning Commission on June 24 approved a request from Brixmor, the management group for Waterford Commons, for modification of an existing site plan and a special permit. This is to accommodate a proposed outdoor display area to support the store, according to records on file with the town.

Calling it a win-win, Waterford Planning Director Abby Piersall told The Day on Wednesday, "It's a great business. I think they have a real strong following of people who have a strong loyalty to that brand."

She noted that Tractor Supply had been targeting Waterford, and that Brixmor worked hard to get a tenant into the former Babies R Us space.

Piersall was unsure of the timeline for opening, and a Brixmor spokesperson said Brixmor is unable to provide any details about the retailer now. A Tractor Supply representative could not be reached for comment.

Along with tractor parts and attachments, Tractor Supply sells other farm equipment, livestock and beekeeping essentials, pet supplies, lawn and garden tools, heating and cooling devices, sporting goods, outdoor furniture, boots and kitchen items.

Its other Connecticut stores are in Pawcatuck, Old Saybrook, Griswold, North Windham, Colchester, Vernon, Enfield, Middletown, Farmington, Wallingford, Naugatuck, Guilford, Barkhamsted, New Milford, Newtown and Orange.

The attorney representing Brixmor told the planning and zoning commission that 52 parking spaces will be lost but there is still ample parking on site, meeting minutes show. Nobody from the public commented on the project at the June 24 meeting.

e.moser@theday.com