A MORRISONS store is set to replace a Co-Op store in Wickford, it has been confirmed this morning.

Council chiefs have tied up a deal with Heriot UK and the supermarket chain to bring the supermarket to Wickford town centre.

The store, which will create 140 new jobs, will be built near the Wickford main car park.

Improved car parking facilities will feature as part of the development, alongside better links from the supermarket to the high street and residential areas.

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Director of growth at Basildon Council, Tomasz Kozlowski said: “We are delighted to announce this exciting development for Wickford.

"The regeneration of Wickford Town Centre remains a key priority for the council.

"It is important that the town centre is revitalised to encourage inward investment and to ensure that Wickford is sustainable as a retail and leisure location.”

Morrisons senior development manager James Smith said: “We’re delighted that Morrisons will be part of the town centre redevelopment.

"It's still early days in the process but we look forward to completing the store, creating new jobs and welcoming shoppers to Morrisons Wickford.”

Chairman of Heriot Steve Herring added: “Heriot are pleased that the parties have now reached agreement and the scheme can move forward.

"We are excited to be involved in the proposed town center redevelopment proposals for Wickford and bringing Morrison’s to the town.”