Supermarket giant Tesco to create 90 jobs in Taunton

Ninety jobs will be created in Somerset after supermarket giant Tesco was given permission to expand one of its store in Taunton.

The Castle Street building had a 14,000 sq ft (1,300 sq m) extension approved by Taunton Deane Borough Council, increasing its size by more than 50%.

Tesco plans to offer a greater range of non-food items to its customers, including clothing.

A mezzanine level will be added, as will 54 extra car parking spaces.

"We feel that our proposals will make a major contribution towards improving choice, competition and the range of goods and services available to consumers in Taunton," said Tesco spokeswoman Juliette Bishop.

Taunton Deane Borough Council approved the building work providing measures are taken to prevent flooding, and a new footpath and cycle way are installed.

"It will certainly improve competition and local competition has to be a good thing," said town centre manager Graham Love.

"Taunton's got a very strong retail offering.

"A trip to the supermarket is a very different shopping experience to coming into the County Town, spending some time enjoying what the town centre has to offer."