St Modwen, owner, developer and asset manager of the town centre, says Morrisons has committed to anchor its new 130,000 sq ft retail development in the town. Tony McDonough reports

Morrisons is to open a 45,000 sq ft supermarket in Kirkby town centre, creating 200 jobs.

St Modwen, owner, developer and asset manager of the town centre, has confirmed that Morrisons has committed to anchor its new 130,000 sq ft retail development in the town, which is due to open in 2019.

A revised planning application will now be submitted to Knowsley Council to update the existing proposals to reflect the specific requirements of Morrisons.

St Modwen has been working closely with the supermarket to finalise the design of the new store.

The new supermarket will create around 200 jobs and will feature the retailer’s popular Market Street where customers can watch the store’s expert food makers, including butchers, fishmongers and bakers, prepare fresh food each day.

A 450-space car park will be provided for shoppers in front of the store and the other large new retail units.

Paul Batho, projects director at St Modwen, said: “After months of speculation, we are now in the position to confirm that Morrisons will be the anchor supermarket in Kirkby.

“Local people have been calling out for a new supermarket in the town centre for many years.

“Morrisons will enhance the range of shopping available in Kirkby and meets the needs of local people. It will boost the local economy, creating new jobs during construction and in the supermarket when it opens, as well as bringing more shoppers and other local businesses to the town.”

The redevelopment will complement the existing town centre shops and will include improved pedestrian links, car parking, new public realm and landscaping.

St Modwen has also signed an agreement with Reel Cinemas which are set to replace the former library on Newtown Gardens as part of a new leisure scheme.