Extension go-ahead makes shopping taste better

BRANCHING out . . . the new extension can be seen on the right hand side of the roof in this artist’s impression

SAINSBURY’S has been granted planning permission for the construction of an extension at its Oldham store which will be used for a new customer restaurant.

The new addition will free up the site of the current cafe allowing the Union Street supermarket to stock a wider range of goods.

The town-centre store currently employs around 200 full-time staff but the extension could mean 25 new full and part-time jobs being created.

The building will not increase in size under the proposals, as the new floor will sit just below the roof — known as a mezzanine design — and customers will access it via new escalators.

Part of the existing roof will be raised by 7ft but will not be higher than the highest point of the existing archway and will not be visible from Union Street.

Christian Wakelin, Sainsbury’s development executive for extensions, said: “Sainsbury’s is delighted with this decision, and it means that our plans for an improved store in Oldham have taken a major step forward.

“The extension will enhance the shopping experience and create full and part-time jobs for local people.”