Long-awaited supermarket announces opening date

Plans had to be amended because of changes in the retail market, the firm said

A new supermarket will open in Alsager next month, more than 10 years after it first received planning permission.

Sainsbury's said its new superstore in Brunds Farm Road, near Linley Lane, will open on 26 February.

The supermarket includes a petrol station, a 249-space car park including 15 disabled spaces, a charging hub for electric vehicles and accessible toilets inside the store.

The supermarket was given the go-ahead by Cheshire East Council last year. The retailer first secured permission in 2014 but plans did not materialise.

The original plans had to be amended because of changes in the retail market, caused by online shopping and people working from home, the company said.

Patrick Dunne, chief property and procurement officer, said: "We're excited to be entering the home stretch in the construction and fit-out of Sainsbury's Alsager Superstore and we're delighted to share that it will open its doors."

Superstore manager Katie Leese said: "We're currently working hard to get everything ready for opening day. We're really looking forward to meeting our new customers and playing our part in the local community."

The store will also include an Argos as well as Habitat homeware and Tu clothing ranges to order online for collection, the company said.

Sainsbury's said that its existing Local store in the town would continue to trade after the new supermarket opens.