Little Lever Tesco given go-ahead

Cheshire-based developer Ladson Commercial Plans has been granted consent for a new Tesco supermarket with a net sales area of 18,500 sq ft in Little Lever, Bolton.

The new store on the former Pennine Pet Factory site will replace the existing Tesco Metro on Market Street.

Bolton Council's planning committee voted unanimously in favour of the development at the former factory site which is currently derelict.

Ladson Commercial has agreed a 20-year lease with Tesco. According to the developer construction work should begin on site in autumn 2012 with an opening date of late 2013.

Chris Bowman, land director of Ladson Commercial, said: "When the site became available we recognised it was ideal for retail use so we snapped it up. The plans are in keeping with the Government's push to see the regeneration of brownfield sites. The scheme will provide investment and jobs in Little Lever and we are thrilled about developing the site."

Once the new supermarket is open Tesco will close their existing 5,000 sq ft net sales area Metro store with the potential to lease the building which will maintain its open A1 retail consent.

Matthew Magee, regional corporate affairs manager at Tesco, said: "We are delighted by the decision and we have worked alongside Ladson Commercial to produce a scheme that improves our offer to customers and keeps more trade in Little Lever.

"We also look forward to bringing an opportunity for further retail to Little Lever at our existing Metro store once we relocate."