RETAIL giant Tesco has finally been given the go-ahead to begin building a superstore in Leyland.
Plans for the store, to be built on deserted land next to Leyland Leisure Centre, in Lancastergate, have been in the pipeline for around two years.
To celebrate the news, Jean Hunter, chief executive of South Ribble Borough Council, and council leader Howard Gore met with representatives from Leyland job centre and Runshaw College yesterday (Wednesday).
The company claim hundreds of local jobs will be created by the development.
Shaun Edgeley, Tesco corporate affairs manager, said: "The development will create hundreds of brand new jobs, with many of these going to Leyland's local long-term unemployed."
The store was given the green-light by both the Government and local planners, and the news is being greeted as the turning point in the town's fortune.
Councillor Cliff Hughes, portfolio holder for planning and economic development for South Ribble Borough Council, said: "Leyland is set for a renaissance, this is terrific news for the town."
Work is due to start on the new 8,315 square metre store shortly.
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