DISCOUNT retailer Home Bargains could soon open a new store in Middlewich replacing the former Jack's supermarket.

The Wheelock Street store closed last year after Tesco announced it was scrapping the discount brand it launched in 2018.

Now a planning application has been submitted to Cheshire East Council to refurbish the premises which would allow T J Morris Ltd - which trades as Home Bargains - to takeover the site.

According to a design and access statement, submitted by Quod planning consultants on behalf of the applicant, the proposal would also create around 70 new jobs.

It states: "The proposals seek to facilitate the re-occupation of underutilised and vacant floorspace to enable Home Bargains (trading name of T J Morris) to expand and strengthen its offer in the North West of England.

"T J Morris is looking to refurbish the building given that it is in a relatively poor state of repair.

"The vacant retail floor space also provides Home Bargains with an opportunity to expand its retail offering to Middlewich town centre. The nearest store to the site is located in Winsford, some 3.5 miles away.

"The proposals represent substantial private sector investment and will lead to the refurbishment and improvement of an existing building in Middlewich town centre, that is in a relatively poor state of repair.

"It will also result in the creation of new jobs through the construction and operational phases."

The plans show the refurbishment would include a new shopfront with provision for eight cycle hoops, while the car park will be reconfigured to provide 83 parking spaces, seven disabled spaces and 10 parent and child bays.

There will also be two electric vehicle charging points and provision for a further two more in future. new trolley shelters would also be provided.

Nearby residents have welcomed the plans as the site has become a target for anti-social behaviour.

One resident in Wallcroft Gardens said: "Any business that takes these premises over is welcomed by all of us in Wallcroft Gardens as at night it has become and congregation area for local youths and have been causing damage to the building and bring a general nuisance.

"They have my full support in any developments that take place."

Another in Wallcroft Gardens added: "This would be a great asset to Middlewich, however the car park needs to remain well lit and CCTV installed as this attracts a lot of trouble in the evenings.

"Ideally would like to see car park closed during times when store is closed.

"We welcome the idea of this building being occupied but it needs to well managed, secure at all times and be a big part of the community."

The Guardian has contacted Home Bargains for comment.

For more details on the plans, search reference 23/0246C on the council's online planning portal.