SAINSBURY'S bosses have promised "major invetment" at Colchester's now empty former B&Q site - but have axed plans for a new supermarket.
Sainsbury’s was first granted planning permission to launch a supermarket inside the site, in Lightship Way, Hythe, back in 2016.
The groceries giant was set to take over the lease of the unit in 2019, but the DIY firm then signed a two-year extension, before eventually relocating to Stane Retail Park.
Since last year’s move to Stanway, however, the site has remained empty, with questions being raised over whether Sainsbury’s was still interested in the unit.
The brand has now finally revealed what it intends to do with the site, but the vision no longer includes a new supermarket.
Instead, Sainsbury’s wants to rejuvenate the area by opening an Argos Local Fulfilment Centre, a 15,000-ft gym, and a retail unit, subject to planning permission.
If given the go-ahead, bosses believe the development could open sometime next year, creating 100 new jobs across a range of roles and levels.
These will include roles for drivers, warehouse operatives and management personnel within the local fulfilment centre, which is similar to a distribution centre.
A spokesman for Sainsbury’s said: “The proposals we are submitting represent a major investment into Lightship Way which will support local economic growth.
“The vacant site will be put to good use and we look forward to listening to the views of the community as we move forward.”
The updated proposals will replace the previous planning permission for a new store, but Sainsbury’s bosses believe the new vision will make the best possible use of the site.
Lee Scordis, Colchester councillor for Old Heath and The Hythe, said: “A new Sainsbury’s would have been nice but I think these will be good additions to the area.
“We do already have a large Tesco just opposite the roundabout so you will get less traffic from not having a Sainsbury’s - I think this will benefit the area.”
A dedicated website has been created to provide neighbours of the site an opportunity to view the proposals in detail and share feedback.
This can be accessed by visiting consultwithyou.co.uk/Sainsburys/Colchester.
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