THE new Tesco store that will be built in Kinson is set to create more than 120 jobs, the retail giant has told the Daily Echo.

Work is continuing apace to clear the site of the old arcade in Wimborne Road, with the Royal Oak pub coming down last weekend – and Sophie Akokhia, Tesco’s corporate affairs manager, has met with business leaders in the suburb.

She said that around 120 jobs would be created, with recruitment starting in August and an event being held for those who are interested.

Anyone who has been unemployed for more than six months will be guaranteed an interview, she said.

Sophie added: “We are delighted that work’s under way and positive progress is being made. The summer will signal another exciting phase, with the Tesco and new retail units starting to take shape.

“We hope to open our doors before Christmas and look forward to boosting shopping choice, as well as becoming one of the community’s biggest employers.”

She visited Kinson this week and met with Ramesh Lal, chairman of Kinson Business Forum.

Ramesh said: “We found common ground that will help raise the positive profile of Kinson and we can work together towards enhancing the benefits for the local community and business/service providers.

“I feel confident that with the imminent arrival of Tesco, the local economy will benefit with new jobs and a likely increase in more shoppers.

“We have 39,000 cars passing through this road on a daily basis.

“The potential to make this area a shop-stop is obvious and we see this as an opportunity to offer Kinson’s real treasure – its rich, colourful and exciting heritage and history.

“With so many green spaces and the regeneration of the schools, leisure centre, library and community services, Kinson can become a very attractive area both to live and visit.”

Community role
TESCO corporate affairs manager Sophie Akokhia said: “We believe in Kinson High Street and want to play an active role in the community.
“We are looking forward to working in partnership with the business forum and have lots of ideas that we would like to explore.”