Speculation surrounds an empty superstore in Chatteris as an application for an alcohol licence has been put forward by Tesco.
The 26,500 sq ft of space in Fenland Way, which sits vacant by the recently opened Poundstretcher, was acquired by the supermarket giant in 2012.
But in January 2015 they announced they were pulling out of the project.
However, earlier this year it was rumoured that Tesco could be using the site to launch a new discount brand to rival the likes of Aldi and Lidl.
In a statement issued by Tesco today (June 28), they said: “We continue to look to ensure a positive future for our Chatteris site and are seeking an alcohol license in order to support this process.”
A notice has also gone up on the building, stating the details of the application to Fenland District Council
“An application has been made to Fenland District Council for a new premises licence under section 17 of the Act by Tesco Store Ltd to sell alcohol between 06.00-23.00 Monday to Sunday,” it states.
“Anyone wishing to make representations concerning this application should do so in writing to Fenland District Council.
“Representations in respect of this application must reach the Licensing Authority by 24th July 2018.”
A Fenland District Council spokesperson said: “We can confirm Tesco Stores has applied for a licence; however this doesn’t necessarily mean that the licencee will be for Tesco.”
Tesco originally won permission for the £22million superstore on Fenland Way in six years ago - and promised 250 jobs for Chatteris.
The application to divide the store was first made in November 2016, but it was subject to an extensive consultation and assessment on the impact on local shops.
One of the main issues to be resolved was the amount of space each of the proposed new stores would occupy.
When it was announced that a Poundstretcher was proposed for half of the site, the town council said they “fully supported” the application and were “anxious see the empty units filled”.
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