Salford Tesco scheme approved
TESCO has won its battle to build a huge 130,000 sq ft Tesco Extra superstore in Pendleton despite opposition to the store from from local traders at the nearby Salford Shopping City scheme and from architectural body CABE.
Tesco has said that the decision by councillors at a Salford City Council planning meeting yesterday to approve its new store will lead to 600 new jobs being created in the area – half of which will go to local, long-term unemployed people.
It also pledged that the store would also have its own “community champion” – a member of staff dedicated to working with local groups and charities.
The store, which comes with 785 free parking spaces, was criticised by CABE as an inefficient use of land based on an “outdated, out-of-town” retail concept, while traders at the nearby Salford Shopping City complex collected 8,000 signatures opposing the store.
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.
“Residents will be able to benefit from a great range of products and with good links to Salford Shopping City, local traders can benefit from the increased visitor numbers our store will create.
“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.
Construction of the store will start next year and Tesco will begin recruiting new staff during the summer.
