B&Q and Morrisons plan for Ipswich store conversion

Permission is being sought to divide a large retail unit in an Ipswich shopping park and create two separate stores – a move which could create up to 300 jobs.

If the proposal is given the green light, the existing B&Q shop at the Euro Retail Park will be converted into a smaller B&Q store and a Fresh Format Morrisons foodstore.

The plan, which has now been submitted to Ipswich Borough Council, received positive reviews from people in the area during a public consultation at the end of last year.

Richard Haynes, of Morrisons, said: “I am delighted with the response we received at our public exhibition, and submitting this application marks the next key milestone for this project.

“A new Morrisons will improve the food shopping provision on the eastern side of Ipswich and provide more choice and competition for the whole town – complementing our existing store at Sproughton Road.”

The food store is set to carry the full range of Morrisons’ goods and services while the 300 jobs that have been mooted will include training opportunities.

Andrew McDonnell, B&Q’s divisional director London and East Anglia, added: “We are delighted to be working with Morrisons to revitalise an established shopping location and renew our commitment to Ipswich.

“Our new store format is designed to make it easier for customers to shop and is being well received everywhere we have introduced it so far.”

The proposal is now set to be debated by borough planners and it is expected a decision will be reached by April 16.

You can view the application by visiting www.ipswich.gov.uk

Source : Matt Bunn - EADT.co.uk
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