Tesco creates 1,000 jobs

Supermarket giant Tesco today unveiled £63 million plans to create more than 1,000 jobs with a distribution centre near Lichfield.

The centre will be based at the Fradley Park industrial estate to run its operations for the whole of the Midlands.

The facility will replace an existing grocery depot that is set to close with the loss of 600 jobs at Crick, near Northampton, by the end of September.

The closure is subject to a consultation with trade unions and all staff will be offered the chance to transfer to the larger purpose built Fradley Park site.The new site was chosen for its centrality and should be up and running by September.

Tesco spokesman David Nieberg said: "Fradley Park was chosen for its overall suitability and the new facility will enable us to meet the demands of our customers now and in the future."

He said it was good news for the people of Lichfield as many jobs would be up for grabs.

He added: "It may be impractical for some employees to move from Crick and they will be considered for roles at other depots and also in our stores. Redundancy packages will be offered."

Councillor Tony Thompson, chairman of Lichfield District Council's employment committee, said: "It is good news for the district but I think jobs and housing need to be related as not everybody can commute."