jobs boost as shop expands

Up to 100 full and part-time jobs will be created in Kidderminster under a supermarket's expansion plan, it has been revealed today.

Supermarket giant Sainsbury's wants to enlarge its existing premises in Carpet Trades Way by a further 13,637 sq ft.

The plans have been submitted to Wyre Forest District Council for consideration following a period of consultation with town shoppers.

The council's planning committee is expected to consider the application early in the new year.

And if the plans are approved bosses say they will lead to a jobs boost for the area.

The new posts would be in everything from till staff to shelf-stackers.

Alongside the extension, the customer cafe would be relocated to a newly constructed first-floor level and access improved to the car park.

Additional car parking spaces will be created and the existing recycling area will be moved to make way for the car park changes.

A new exit will be created for the petrol station along with a new jet wash. Petrol tanks on the site will also be moved to make way for the developments.

Sainsbury's regional development executive, Christian Wakelin, said: "The plans have now been submitted to the district council. We are looking forward to a positive decision."

Supermarket officials have not yet revealed the cost of the scheme.

Jobs, which will be open to people living in the town, will be in a range of positions in all departments. More staff will also be sought for the expanded cafe.

Bosses from the firm said 70 per cent of residents asked in a survey had had responded positively to the improvement plan.