New Tesco could benefit jobless

Published 3 Mar 2011 09:30 2 Comments

HUNDREDS of jobs could be created in south Reading with the opening of a giant supermarket distribution centre.

Sources say Tesco, whose motto is Every Little Helps, is in detailed discussions with Scottish and Newcastle, owners of the Berkshire Brewery site at Worton Grange, near Junction 11 of the M4. The brewery closed last year.

The development would be a huge boost for the local economy and would provide entry level jobs for people in areas such as neighbouring Whitley, which is among the 10% most disadvantaged in the country.

Whitley councillor Rachel Eden said: "As ward councillors we'll be looking at any proposals for the development of the site very carefully for the effect on local jobs, how it will affect amenities for Whitley and sustainability."

The plan would be to build 700,000 sq ft warehousing on the 58-acre plot where the former Courage Brewery site, the last of Reading's famous Three Bs, closed its doors in April following in the footsteps of biscuit maker Huntley and Palmers and bulb growers Sutton Seeds Bulbs. The closure of the brewery last year costs 362 jobs.

Reports from the city this week say Tesco is close to acquiring the site for around £40m.

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 04 Mar 11

Have your say. Post a comment on this article.

• 

  Braveheart
  Unregistered User
  Mar 9, 13:39
  Report comment

  This is a good thing for Reading, with around 13 shops there is definately a requirement for a warehouse. We could even have a food outlet alongside serving the offices around Green Park. I think Reading should not waste any funds on trying to gain city status and just get twinned with Tesco, mabe change its name to Tescotown.
  
  Recommend?   Yes 0     No 0

• 

  Maffff
  Unregistered User
  Apr 8, 08:49
  Report comment

  Tesco FC - sponsored by Waitrose. I see a problem there.
  
  Would we have to change our kit to vertical stripes like the baggies?
  
  Recommend?   Yes 1     No 0

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