Tesco’s Christmas store plans threat

Tesco store, Greenfield

TESCO’S plans to open in Greenfield in time for Christmas could be scuppered if it fails to comply with original planning permission.

Local councillors have warned that the supermarket giant cannot open its new store in Chew Valley Road unless it builds industrial units at the site — a condition of planning permission imposed in 2005.

But with under a month to go and the units only half built, councillors are doubtful that they will be available for use before the planned opening date of December 6.

Saddleworth South councillor Richard Knowles, said: “All Tesco has done is put the steel frame in place, I can’t see it being ready in time.

“The store will be opening illegally and in breach of planning laws if it does not comply and we’ve been urging council officers to enforce these rules — what message will it send out if Tesco gets away with it?

“Tesco are not a law unto themselves, the whole idea of the units was to provide something for Saddleworth.”

The situation will be a test for Oldham Council’s planning department, which has recently come under fire for not carrying out inspections on developments.

Councillor Rod Blyth, cabinet member for community safety and public protection, said: “We have written to Tesco about its building programme and compliance with original planning consent, in regard to these industrial units.

“Until we hear back we can make no further comments.”

The 15,000ft superstore has received a staggering 400 applications for 100 jobs on offer.

Store manager, Anna Wisniowski, said: “As far as I know there will be no problems with being ready in time.

“We have been in undated with people interested in getting a job with us.

“I am delighted with my new team.

“In this time of economic uncertainty, it is great that we are able to create jobs and help people into work.”

The store will provide parking for 210 cars and will open from 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.