Flagship Tesco may open in two years

The long-awaited 80,000 sq ft flagship Tesco in Stourbridge could be open by summer 2012, it was revealed today. It will create 400 full and part-time jobs.

The store is part of the £50million regeneration of the town centre, and bosses have promised to ensure as many vacancies as possible will be filled by people in the area.

Tesco spokesman Mark Harrison said it was hoped the store in The Crown Centre would be open by the middle of 2012. The news came as the multi-million pound plans went on show in Stourbridge Library.

The project has been plagued by delays since Dudley Council gave site owners Modus the thumbs-up in 2008.

The original scheme was for changes to the centre including the supermarket, a 15,000 sq ft market hall and a complex of 75 flats, as well as improvements to the 458-space multi-storey car park in neighbouring Bell Street and six new shops to sit alongside those already trading in the centre.

Tesco took over as lead developer when Modus hit financial difficulties last year.

Barbara Barnes, 52, from Oldswinford, popped in to view the plans, which were due to be on show until 7pm today. "They look good — I think it's a great idea, and I'll probably apply as

I'm not working now," said Miss Barnes.