Jobs boost as store schemes approved

Two multi-million pound developments creating more than 100 jobs are set to be built in Shropshire after planners approved the projects.

DIY giants Wickes and low cost superstore Aldi can now come to Telford as part of a £12 million complex creating 70 jobs.

And in Muxton a 50-room hotel complex complete with a swimming pool and fitness suite will be built at The Shropshire Golf Centre.

The store schemes, to be built on the Snedshill Trading Estate in Holyhead Road, near Oakengates, are expected to pull in thousands of shoppers to Telford and the hotel is expected to act as a tourist haven.

Both applications were approved at a meeting of Telford & Wrekin Council plans board last night.

Liberty Mercian, developers of the Wickes store, said they were delighted after being given the go-ahead. They have also set aside more than £410,000 towards infrastructure for transport and highways around the site.

Building work is expected to start early next year with a completion date expected in Easter 2011.

The new hotel complex will also bring jobs to the county and will act as a tourism and business centre.

The applicants, Burhill Golf and Leisure Ltd, have agreed to contribute £30,000 towards road works and have made a promise to update road signs.