Sainsbury's has confirmed that it is keen to open a convenience store by the railway station in Chippenham, which would create at least 20 jobs.

Planning permission has been granted to change the former Royal Mail sorting office building on Station Hill, currently empty, into a retail unit on the ground floor with offices above.

Nine parking spaces would be allocated to the retail unit and 28 spaces would be kept as pay-and-display.

Sainsbury’s said it hopes to move into the ground floor unit later this year.

Angharad Lynch, the firm’s property communications manager, said: “We can confirm we are interested in opening a Sainsbury’s Local at this site.

“Locals are convenience stores, which people use to top-up on their weekly shop. The proposals will create between 20 to 25 jobs for local people.

“Sainsbury’s will be submitting planning applications for signage, and an application for an alcohol licence.

“Subject to planning permission, we hope to open late this year, and look forward to welcoming people into our new store.”