Supermarket giant Asda is in talks to take over part of the Victoria Plaza shopping centre, it was revealed today.
A leading Southend councillor has confirmed Asda's parent company, the American firm Wal-Mart, is interested in making a move for the run-down complex.
If the talks bear fruit, it is expected the company would plough millions into the Plaza and has plans to cover it.
David Garston, executive councillor for regeneration and economic development, said roofing the multi-storey centre would be a major boost for traders.
He said: "There have been indications Asda could take over Victoria Plaza. I believe they have been having meetings with the tenants.
"It would be what everybody would want. It is a very dated part of Southend. We have always wanted to see it covered in."
News of the talks brought a mixed reaction from traders whose livelihoods could be affected by a David-and-Goliath trade war.
Ray Clare, owner of Food Fayre, in Chuchill Square, said: "It is going to affect us badly. I am a convenience store and they are going to come in and do everything I do here at supermarket prices."
However, Ricky Osbourne, owner of Victoria Shoes, was more optimistic a revamp will pull in more customers.
Neither Asda or the shopping centre's leaseholder, BEP Southend, were available for comment.
Published Friday January 2, 2004
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