Sainsbury's coming to Thatcham?

The supermarket has announced that it intends to open a Sainsbury’s Local in one of the vacant buildings in Coombe Square, on the junction of Chapel Street and Coombe Court.
Sainsbury’s says that the shop will provide a number of benefits by regenerating an empty building, while providing an alternative outlet for local residents to shop.
It also expects the new shop to create between 20 and 25 full and part-time jobs for people in the local community.
It is proposed that the shop would trade from 7am- 11pm, not on a 24 hour basis.
Sainsbury’s regional acquisitions manager, Robin Ockendon, said: “We are delighted to announce that we have submitted a planning application to allow us to open a Sainsbury’s Local in Thatcham.
“Not only will the proposals create 20 - 25 new jobs by bringing a vacant unit back in to use, but it will also provide a convenient and fantastic quality shop for residents looking to top up their main food shopping locally.”
Mr Ockendon added that the plans included 13 dedicated car parking spaces and a delivery bay at the back of the shop. As for deliveries he said: “Our convenience stores are typically serviced by smaller rigid vehicles, rather than the articulated lorries that deliver to our supermarkets.
"An early warning tracker system will also be used to ensure that the store is able to receive and turn around deliveries quickly and efficiently.”
Sainsbury’s has also applied for an alcohol licence and says it is committed to operating its stores with respect for its neighbours.
When asked whether a Sainsbury’s was needed in the town, owing to the close proximity of a Waitrose and two Co-ops in the Broadway, Mr Ockendon said: “The addition of a Sainsbury’s Local would not only revitalise a vacant unit, but would bring new jobs and greater choice to the area, thus retaining footfall and investment.”
Residents after further information can contact Jodie Wales at GKA, Sainsbury’s community representatives for Thatcham, on 0845 6060535 or email yoursainsburyslocal@gka.co.uk
What are your views? Contact Thatcham reporter John Herring on 01635 886633 or email john.herring@newburynews.co.uk