A SUPERMARKET undergoing a six-figure expansion has announced when the new site will open to customers.

The Co-op in Priory Road, Ulverston has begun its major expansion following a six figure investment which will see a relocation of the existing store.

Plans to expand the supermarket were given the green light by South Lakeland District Council in August last year.

The planning application was first put forward in early April 2019, just weeks after work was due to start on building a Marks and Spencer Food Hall and an Aldi store in the Beehive Business Park. According to the planning application, the existing Co-op in Priory Road will be demolished and a larger site and car parking facility will be built in its place. A new car park will also be constructed on the existing site including alterations to the vehicular access and turning area.

Ulverston town councillor, Dave Webster, said the expansion plans have been called for by residents for several years.

"It's an extremely busy Co-op which always has a queue whenever I visit," said Cllr Webster. "So I think the expansion plans are responding to that demand for a larger space for both the supermarket and the carpark. "The shop supplies goods for the vast majority of residents on that side of town so it's a very well-used facility. "I think the expansion will be well-received by everyone in the town."

Groundwork has officially begun on expanding the site with hopes to finish the project by winter next year, a spokeswoman for Co-op has revealed.

She said: “The Co-op is looking forward to opening a new store in Ulverston next winter following a six figure investment which will see a relocation of the existing store on Priory Road.

"Ulverston’s brand new Co-op will run on renewable electricity and have a focus on fresh, healthy products, food-to-go, vegan and free-from foods, Fairtrade products, award winning wines, meal ideas and essentials and will be better placed to serve the community.

"Our aim is to operate at the heart of local life, connecting communities and making a difference locally and Co-op’s Membership scheme sees local causes receive a funding boost every time our Members buy own-brand products.”