A CHURCH is being converted into a new Tesco Express convenience store, creating up to 20 new jobs.

The former Westbourne Methodist Church in Poole Road is currently being re-fitted after the supermarket giant secured a long-term lease on the building.

A Tesco spokeswoman said: “We have taken out a lease and the premises are being fitted out at the moment.

“The new store is due to open on August 4. Our Tesco Express convenience stores usually create around 20 jobs.”

In April the Daily Echo revealed how planning agents had already had applications approved which would allow the building to be used for shops or banking. Tesco confirmed speculation that it was interested in the premises.

Covering around 4,000 square feet, the main church building’s pews and woodwork were stripped out in preparation for its conversion to retail use.

But some local residents and independent traders are opposed to the opening of a new Tesco Express store in the former place to worship.

Henry Feilden, a vet at nearby Poole Road Veterinary Surgery, said: “Many of my clients, both young and old, are very unhappy with Tesco’s plans.

“People in Westbourne don’t want another Tesco store on their doorstep; it’s desecration of a church building; an art gallery or a market would have been more appropriate, and there are all sorts of safety issues.

“Juggernauts will be making deliveries several times a day and Westbourne high street is already very congested. Tesco are taking over and they could force other shops in the area to close.

“Tesco customers will end up using the nearby doctors’ surgery car park which could cause problems for elderly and infirm patients.”