Primark set to open new store in town

Primark is looking to open a large new store in Walsall, it was revealed today.

Talks are at an advanced stage to take over part of the existing town centre Tesco store when the supermarket relocates during next year.

It comes after almost 3,500 joined an online campaign calling for Primark to move to the town.

The deal, which it is hoped will be rubber-stamped within weeks, is expected to provide a major boost for the town.

The budget clothing chain is famous for its low-priced stock, which includes fashionable clothes, bags and accessories from as little as £1.

Spokesman for Primark Jeff Lancaster said: "We are aware of the huge interest in a Primark in Walsall that has been expressed on the internet.

"However, we cannot confirm anything has been finalised at this stage."

The Primark store is expected to take up 50,000 sq ft of the present Tesco.

Co-Op is poised to take over the rest of the supermarket in The Bridge when it shuts to relocate to a new building.

That is currently taking shape on the site of the old Walsall College in St Paul's Street.

Council leader Mike Bird said he would welcome Primark's arrival in the town.

"I am also aware of the interest and speculation on the internet about Primark coming to Walsall," he said.

"I'm aware that discussions are taking place for a location in the town and would hope they can be concluded successfully."

A total of 3,480 people have joined a 'Primark to Walsall' page on online social networking site Facebook.

Its arrival in the town would bring the number of stores in the West Midlands to four, after Birmingham, Wolverhampton and the Merry Hill Centre.