Big boost to hopes for Tesco in town

A Tesco superstore could finally be on the way to Rugeley after almost a decade of frustration for the supermarket giant and the residents who have backed its plan.

The world's third biggest retailer has submitted draft plans for a 40,000 sq ft store, six new retail units and a free 380-space car park at the former Celcon factory site on Power Station Road.

The development would create a mammoth 400 jobs for the town.

Tesco has previously pledged to guarantee some of the jobs to the long-term unemployed if its long-awaited scheme gets the go-ahead. The scheme will also include a new pedestrian and cycle path from the town centre to the development.

Plans for a Tesco store in the town date back to 2002 when a public inquiry led to Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott throwing out the plans because the development was not close enough to the town centre. But whispers of Tesco's renewed interest began early last year when the chain announced it was holding "informal" talks with Chase District Council chiefs, and representatives from the supermarket.

Staff from the firm have held open consultations to reaffirm the public's support for the scheme, and residents have even created a Facebook page, entitled "Say 'Yes' to Tesco Rugeley", which has more than 1,100 members. Tony Fletcher, Tesco corporate affairs manager, said: "We are pleased to announce our submission to develop the former Celcon factory site.

"Tesco wants to bring a brand new, high-quality Tesco store to Rugeley, offering choice and convenience to residents."