Tesco has been given the green light to build a new store in Salford, Greater Manchester.
Plans for a 130,000 sq ft store opposite Salford Shopping City in Pendleton have been approved by the City Council, despite strong protests from local shoppers.
Salford Estates, which owns Shopping City, objected to the store proposals, claiming it would threaten the shopping centre’s future. The company presented an 8,000-strong petition against the store to Salford City Council.
But despite their objections, councilors yesterday voted in favour of the supermarket, which Tesco claims will create 600 new jobs for the area – half of which will go to local, long-term unemployed people.
The UK’s largest retailer hopes to start building work on the store next year and plans to recruit staff in the summer.
Matthew Magee, corporate affairs manager for Tesco, said: “We’re really pleased that we can now press ahead with an exciting new store for Pendleton.”
“Our store will bring a great shopping experience to residents and we’re looking forward to playing our part in the regeneration of the area.”
“I’d like to thank everyone who attended our public engagement events and who has supported our proposals. I know that the job opportunities, in such a tough economic climate, will be great for Pendleton residents.”