Whitchurch to benefit from new Sainsbury's store
Shoppers have welcomed the opening of a new supermarket in Shropshire which has created about 230 jobs.
People hope the Sainsbury's store off London Road in Whitchurch will encourage new people to shop in the town and boost other businesses. The store opened its doors for the first time yesterday when Mayor Councillor Peggy Mullock, cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony.
She was joined by store manager, Mike Paterson, and representatives from the store's first Charity of the Year, Whitchurch Community Hospital.
Shoppers braved the cold weather and queued outside.
Councillor Mullock said: "Whitchurch now can offer a bigger shopping choice with our local shops offering variety as well, hopefully this will have a knock-on for the whole town in the run up to Christmas."
Simon Lyon, member of Whitchurch Chamber of Trade, said: "It's good for the High Street and the town.
"I have walked from the car park to the High Street and it took me three minutes.
"Hopefully it will attract new businesses and it will fill some of our empty shops."
Emily Davies, 21, who was one of the first shoppers through the door and lives just outside the town, said: "It is very exciting. It will give customers variety."
Shopper John Jones, 42, who lives on the outskirts of the town, added: "I think it is fantastic. It needs it in this area.
"It's got everything you could ask for."
The wider development of the site has seen two listed buildings restored. More than 40 bird and bat boxes and more than 100 trees have also been installed on site.
Mr Paterson said: "We are delighted to be able to welcome customers to the new store in time for Christmas and I know people are going to love having local access to Sainsbury's fantastic shopping experience."
