Waitrose unveil their design for latest store at Warminster

The supermarket chain is looking to move to the current home of Dents in Fairfield Road, with the glove makers going to a new base in Furnax Lane.

Waitrose have confirmed the new supermarket, which could be open by late 2011, would create 120 jobs.

Spokesman for the supermarket, James Armstrong, said: “We have always been overwhelmed by the number of letters we receive asking us to come to Warminster, a desire we have shared for a long time.

“The proposed store will provide a full range of Waitrose products and services, which we believe can bring substantial benefits to Warminster in the long-term.

“It will not only enhance the quality and choice of shopping facilities available, but reduce the need for residents to travel outside the town for their main food shop.

“The store will create 120 jobs for local people who will all become partners in the John Lewis Partnership, entitling them to a share in profits in the form of an annual bonus.

“If the application is successful Henry Boot Developments anticipate starting work by the spring with the new store opening in late 2011.”

The store will be 23,000 sq ft with a further 3,000 sq ft for additional units and parking.

Gary Loo, director at architects Boyes Ree, said: “We have worked closely with Henry Boot Developments to design a scheme that is modern in appearance but at the same time complements the adjacent conservation area by using materials that work in harmony with those found in the surrounding historic buildings.”

Boyes Rees has also been given the contract to work on the new Dents building in Furnax Lane, which is going to cost £2.4m and will include a museum on the firm which will be open to the public.

Warminster Town Council’s planning advisory committee will discuss Waitrose’s application at a public meeting at Dewey House on Monday at 7pm.

A decision on the application is likely to be made by Wiltshire Council before December 23.