Supermarket battle hots up

2:45pm Wednesday 3rd September 2008

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SHOPPERS in Melksham could get more choice when it comes to where they buy their food as the battle between three large supermarket chains hots up.

This week Sainsbury's announced plans to extend it's Bath Road store just as ASDA waits to hear if it will be able to move to the town.

In July plans for a new Lidl store on the former Avon site between Old and New Broughton Road were also approved by West Wiltshire District Council.

Proposals for a revamp of Sainsbury's are currently being drawn up and supermarket bosses hope they will be submitted later this year.

Sainsbury's shoppers were pleased about the news, but felt the town was becoming a supermarket haven.

Sylvia Rivers, 72, from Melksham said she has lived in the town for 52 years and shops in Sainsbury's.

She said: "I think it is good news to hear they are going to be expanding, but Melksham is full of cafes and food shops these days. All we do is eat.

"I think it would be nice if they included a café in the plans like they have in the Chippenham store.

"I suppose this is a response to the competition from the other big chains."

Arran Smith, 26, said: "It is a good idea for Sainsbury's to expand as it gives us more choice, so I am all for it.

"I think it is all down to competition. It is good from a customers point of view, but not for the look of the town."

Christian Wakelin, Sainsbury's regional development executive said the Bath Road store was in an excellent location within the town centre and offered good access to both public transport and pedestrians.

He said: "Extending the store would be a real plus for the town, while adding minimum pressure to the surrounding road network and importantly meeting the recognised retail need.

"It is early days but as the proposal develops, we look forward to sharing our plans with the town's residents and council members.

"This will help to ensure that we deliver the right infrastructure for the local community."

ASDA are currently waiting for a decision on the plans they have submitted for land off the A350 at the West of Midland Farmers Roundabout.

A spokesman for the supermarket chain said: "We have submitted a planning application and are now waiting to hear back from the committee for when it will be considered.

"We are hoping this will be in the next few months.

"We are still in discussions with councillors and other people in the area whilst we are waiting for a decision to be made."