UP to 20 jobs could be created after Tesco announced plans to open a new store in Grange-over-Sands.

Manchester-based developers Kents Bank Assets won permission from South Lakeland District Council earlier this year to convert the town’s former Royal British Legion building into retail units.

At the meeting they confirmed talks with tenants were ongoing but remained tight-lipped over who was interested.

But now the supermarket giants have brought an end to months of local speculation by revealing they are in line to move into the building, on Kents Bank Road, later this year.

At the planning meeting in March opponents to the scheme raised issues over traffic, noise and the knock-on effect on independent shops, but the plans were approved unanimously by councillors.

Tom Harvey, South Lakeland District councillor for Grange South, said Tesco would receive a mixed reaction in the town. He added he expected local businesses would not be affected. “Good stores will continue to thrive, as they have been there for years,” said Coun Harvey, who is also chairman of Grange Town Council.

“I am sure people will not turn their backs on them because of the personal service you get.

“There will be some people who feel Grange has enough stores already but also those who will be pleased for more options.”

He added there were concerns about the additional noise from deliveries and refridger-ation units for nearby homes and also about the added pressure on the already busy road.

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The store would stock a range of products and be open from 7am until 11pm.

On opening, a donation would be made to a charity or community group.

“This Express would be great for the community, creating new jobs and providing a convenient place to shop,” said Tesco spokesperson Mark Thomas. “Our proposals are sensitively designed to complement the town’s character and would mean a long-term future for the former Royal British Legion building is secured.”

A spokesperson for the developer said: “We have worked hard to secure planning permission that will provide the building with a sustainable future.

“We are delighted that since securing consent, Tesco have decided to take the opportunity to open in Grange providing the community with more choice.”