300 Tesco jobs on way to Hednesford

Three hundred new jobs will be created at a new Tesco in Hednesford – with up to 100 going to long-term unemployed people in the area.

The opportunities will be on offer at the new superstore, which is being built as part of the town's £50 million transformation.

Between 80 and 100 positions will be given to residents who have been out of work for a long time.

Cannock Chase Council leader George Adamson said it was a major boost for the community. He said the jobs were already being allocated at the local job centre.

"When Tesco first applied for planning permission, I asked that part of the conditions were that they provided jobs for local people," Councillor Adamson said today. "They then made a promise to employ local people who had been long-term unemployed and provide training.

The work is due to finish by the end of the year.

"When people have been unemployed for a long time, it really affects their self-confidence so they will not only be given new skills but also be helped with their confidence. This is really great news for Hednesford and Cannock."

In total, around 600 jobs will be created in the regeneration of Hednesford. The transformation covers two sites that link the high street in the town and includes a bingo hall, food store, retail units, a drill hall and community centre.

Seven new shops at the Chase Gateway on Market Street are also due to be completed this month, making way for the construction of the new Victoria Shopping Park.

By Claire Fry