Proposed IKEA store to create 400 jobs in Berkshire

IKEA is lodging a planning application for a new store in Reading that could create more than 400 jobs.

The firm wants to redevelop a number of derelict retail and leisure units at Pincents Lane Retail Park, Calcot.

If the application is granted, hundreds of jobs will become available in sales, interior design, logistics, food, customer services and warehousing.

The move follows a consultation process with residents from the surrounding areas.

IKEA is proposing that the store is built on a four-hectare site of commercial land, which has a number of retail and leisure units, some of which are vacant and in a poor state of repair.

If granted planning permission by West Berkshire District Council, the development would consist of a retail warehouse and an adjacent multi-storey car park.

There would be a total of 1,287 parking spaces as well as additional bus and coach parking areas.

The site would be located near to junction 12 of the M4 and would be accessed via an improved A4 junction at Bath Road, Pincents Lane, Dorking Way.