A NEW supermarket will replace a "dated" former food store in an Essex town centre after the local council gave developers permission to demolish the now-empty site.

The new Morrisons will be built in Wickford town centre in place of the old Co-operative, which closed earlier this year.

In addition to the main shop, there will also be a pharmacy, cafe, home delivery pod and service yard, according to the application made to Basildon Borough Council by Heriot UK.

First plans for the new project came to light earlier this year and were reported on Basildon Nub News. Councillors hope the development will boost the local economy, aid the regeneration of Wickford town centre and improve the appearance of the site.

The Co-op store.

Cllr Richard Moore (Con, Burstead), Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure said in a statement:  "The development of a new Morrisons in Wickford Town Centre is extremely positive and has been widely supported by Wickford's residents. Not only will it be a larger and more established store, the new building will also enhance the appearance of the site.

"The new store will hugely increase footfall, generate new jobs for residents while supporting wider objectives on the regeneration of Wickford Town Centre. We will keep residents updated on when works are due to commence."

According to a design and access statement submitted alongside the proposals, the current 1970s building is "dated" and "in need of refurbishment".

117 full time equivalent jobs could be created by the new store, according to a council report.  The application received seven 'positive' representations from local residents and one from Wickford Town Council, the report adds.

However some, including the town council, raised concerns over the loss of roughly 100 car parking spaces, and vehicle access to the site from the High Street.