SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury s has today announced it is planning to open a new store in Saffron Walden – which could create up to 350 jobs locally. Although a new store would provide shoppers with more choice, Sainsbury s will first gage people s opinions

SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury's has today announced it is planning to open a new store in Saffron Walden - which could create up to 350 jobs locally.

Although a new store would provide shoppers with more choice, Sainsbury's will first gage people's opinions by throwing open a public consultation in September.

Development surveyor for Sainsbury's, Michael Morris, said: "Sainsbury's is delighted to be bringing forward proposals for a new store in Saffron Walden, bringing much-needed jobs, choice and competition for the community. A Sainsbury's store in Saffron Walden would be the first in Uttlesford.

"Later this month we will announce details of the consultation and the public exhibition - which is planned for September when people have returned from their summer holidays."

The new store has been proposed for the Granite site, adjacent to the council owned and operated recycling centre, in Thaxted Road.

A spokesman said the store would "provide our full range of high-quality groceries, improving customer choice and competition for Saffron Walden and Uttlesford residents".

An announcement with details of the exhibition will be made shortly.

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