Plans to convert the B and Q superstore at Stairfoot to a Sainsbury's supermarket have been submitted to the council.

 

Under the proposals, up to 400 jobs could be created and the 73,500 sq ft site will include a new store entrance, toilets and cash machines, a cafe and mezzanine level and a reconfigured car park to improve traffic circulation.

 

It will also include bakery, delicatessen, meat and fish and hot food counters.

 

The application stated: "The Sainsbury’s proposal will provide an additional main food shopping facility in Barnsley that will improve consumer choice and competition.

 

"Sainsbury’s is not currently represented in Barnsley in terms of providing a main food offer. Shoppers who wish to shop at Sainsbury’s have to travel to stores further afield."

 

Vehicle and pedestrian access is from Bleachcroft Way.

The general layout and access will remain the same, with minimal changes.

 

Additional car parking will be created following the removal of the B and Q garden centre and builder's yard.

 

The number of disabled spaces will increase from 13 to 38 and the number of parent and mother and child spaces will increase from 6 to 25.

 

At present the building is restricted to the sale of DIY products only, but Sainsbury's is hopeful this will be lifted by Barnsley Council.

 

Bruno Moore, head of town planning for Sainsbury's, said: "We're delighted we're now in a position to submit our application, following several months of public consultation and finalising the plans.

 

"The support we have received throughout the public consultation has been very encouraging, with more than 80 per cent of respondents telling us they want to see a Sainsbury's on that site.

 

"The majority of respondents said they thought a Sainsbury's foodstore would be a great use for the site. Equally, people said the investment from Sainsbury's would be beneficial for the region, preventing the building becoming vacant when B and Q closes."