UP TO 400 jobs could be created as part of £30 million plans to build a supermarket, shops and a pub in Telford.

The retail hub, which has been recommended for approval by council officers, will serve more than 3,000 homes being built as part of the Ironstone development in Lawley over the next 15 years.

The plans, which also include a nursery, 16 houses and 23 flats, will go before the authority’s plans board for a final decision next week.

Ironstone project director Guy Scott said preliminary work could begin in April, with construction of the square set to start in the autumn.

The supermarket is expected to be taken on by Morrison’s and will be more than 3,000 square metres, about two thirds the size of the new Tesco store in Madeley.

Almost 3,000 square metres of commercial units also form part of the plans and may be used as restaurants, cafés or offices.

Developers have also said the pub will most likely be operated by Marston’s Inns and Taverns.

The plans include 12 two-bed flats above the shops, with an additional 11 apartments and 16 homes built around the new centre.

A report to the plans board said: “It is considered that this is a high quality development that is broadly in keeping with the layout of the development framework and design and spirit set out in the outline planning permission.

“Account has had to be taken of the current economic climate but it should still provide an attractive and vibrant local centre with active frontages that will be pedestrian friendly whilst accommodating the motor car.

“The design is modern and contemporary in appearance and addresses the main frontages of Lawley Square. Accordingly it is considered that this development should be supported.”

Ironstone bosses say plans to develop further shops, apartments, and a new primary school will be brought forward at a later date.

Outline planning permission was granted in 2005 for 3,300 dwellings, commercial and leisure developments, a primary school and community centre as part of the development in Lawley.