Tesco hits back with jobs claims in store row

Tesco's attempts to establish a superstore in the town have provoked widespread opposition since it resubmitted plans for a 24-hour store on the site of the former gasworks at New Park earlier this year.

Concerns have been voiced that the arrival of the supermarket will decimate the trade of independent stores and cause further problems on Harrogate's already congested roads.

But senior managers from Tesco yesterday moved to allay these fears by highlighting the impact that the supermarket could have on Harrogate's economy. They said the store could create up to 360 full-time and part-time jobs.

Figures have shown that unemployment in New Park is almost 50 per cent higher than the average in Harrogate. Nearly a quarter of those who are unemployed in the town are under 24, while 15 per cent who are out of work have been without a job for more than six months.

Tesco corporate affairs manager Matthew Magee said: "According to North Yorkshire County Council, there are only 67 vacancies available to every 10,000 people in Harrogate, so finding work has become much more difficult over the last year.

"Tesco can play a big role in boosting the local economy and we are committed to providing jobs and training, and playing a role in Harrogate's economic success."

A date has yet to be finalised for when the supermarket proposals will be considered by Harrogate Council's planning committee, despite initial hopes the plans could have been discussed later this month.