SUPERMARKET giant Safeway has pulled out of plans to build a new store in the centre of Great Harwood - but rival company the Co-op has taken its place.

After months of public consultation, Safeway said it had received plenty of support for the proposed new store off Queen Street - but decided the project was no longer an attractive investment.

The development firm behind the project is pressing on with a new partner - United Norwest Co-op, which says 75 new jobs will be created if plans are approved.

Tracey Hostler, Safeway's public relations manager, said: "We looked long and hard at the plan but it was no longer an attractive investment for us, so we decided to pull out.

"We have had far more support than opposition in Great Harwood and we'd like to thank everyone who supported us."

A spokesman for Stoke-on-Trent based United Norwest Co-op said: "We're delighted that an opportunity has arisen for us.

"Earlier this week we opened our latest Food Market in Ramsbottom. We look forward to bringing an even better store to Great Harwood."

The company also confirmed it would close its existing Co-op in Great Harwood if the plan went through.

Staff would be offered jobs at the new store and more than 75 other jobs would be created.

A Dransfield Properties Ltd spokesman said: "We know there will be some disappointment that Safeway no longer plans to come to Great Harwood.

"But the Co-op has some very exciting new plans for its store and we're delighted that it is so determined to further invest in Great Harwood."

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