The store is being built using the Tesco’s “Regeneration Partnership” model, working with local agencies like the Plus Dane Group.
Deborah Hayeems, regional corporate affairs manager for Tesco, said: “We are excited to get going with the regeneration partnership.
“We are already working with Job Centre Plus to get people ready for jobs.
“It is a dynamic community but an area with high unemployment, so we are ring-fencing half the jobs for long-term unemployed.” The proposed store will occupy 9,571 square metres, with 537 parking spaces and a petrol station.
The site will be able to house several small retail units, including a community cafe, while the current buildings will be demolished.
Planning chairman Cllr Dave Irving said: “It’s a massive store, far bigger than I am happy with.
“But you have to take into account the regeneration of the area.”
