Outrage at Tesco plans

New jobs are set to be created in Willenhall with Tesco planning to take over the former Kwik Save site, although councillors have reacted angrily.

The company has submitted a planning application to Walsall Council to refurbish the building at the Willenhall Neighbourhood Centre site off Owen Road.

A decision is expected by the end of the month.

Budget supermarket Kwik Save closed last April with the loss of 23 jobs.

Tesco has not released any details about the type of store they are looking at or job numbers.

The news has been met with anger by local councillors in Willenhall and neighbouring Darlaston.

Willenhall councillor Ian Shires said: "If Tesco move in they will drive away the competition. We are trying to discourage out-of-town stores as we want to sustain Willenhall town centre."

Darlaston Councillor Bill Madeley said: "It seems like Tesco are taking over everywhere and I'm sure we will feel the impact of this."

No-one from Tesco was available for comment but Walsall Council confirmed it had received a planning application.