Whitchurch set for Tesco and Sainsbury's store wars

A north Shropshire town has become the latest retail battleground after proposals for a new Tesco supermarket were unveiled – just two weeks after rivals Sainsbury's announced plans for its own new store.

Tesco today said it wants to expand its operation in Whitchurch by creating a new store and petrol station at Edgeley Park.

It comes after Sainsbury's announced in October its intention to build a new store off London Road, near the town centre.

More than 500 jobs could be created, with the Sainsbury's scheme poised to create 250 positions, while the Tesco scheme could create work for about 300 people.

The Tesco plan involves the redevelopment of Whitchurch Rugby and Hockey Club but is subject to approval by the club before a planning application is submitted.

It would provide new rugby facilities and a clubhouse, allowing the club to increase its activity in the community. The new Tesco store would occupy part of the club's land and be about twice the size of the existing store on White Lion Meadow.

Meanwhile, the White Lion Meadow site would be redeveloped to create a smaller Tesco store and a new shop to be occupied by another un-named national retailer.

If plans are approved by club members, developer Mercian Developments would put the Tesco proposals before local residents and businesses of Whitchurch at a public consultation exhibition.

A planning application is hoped to be submitted before March 2011.

Whitchurch August Bank Holiday Show and Fete Committee, a local charity which owns Edgeley Park, would receive a significant cash boost which would in turn benefit worthy causes. Today's news ends months of speculation that Tesco has been eyeing-up a bigger store in Whitchurch.

By James Pugh and Tom Johannsen