ALMOST 800 people visited Whittlesey over the weekend to scrutinise multi-million pound plans for a Sainsbury’s store and 54-acre country park.

Robert Oxley, Sainsbury’s Development Surveyor, said 90 per cent of residents were in favour of the proposals, which could provide a “gateway to the town”.

The plans, launched in conjunction with March-based businessman Bruce Smith and his company Whitacre Management Ltd, were displayed at Sir Harry Smith Community College on Friday and Saturday.

They include a 32,000sq ft Sainsbury’s store, a neighbouring 54-acre country park, a shuttle bus to and from Whittlesey and a car-park with more than 400 spaces. The development would take place in the Eastrea Road area and would create around 250 jobs.

An online goods facility would be provided with a business and community park to follow as part of a second phase.

The 54-acre park proved popular with residents but some concerns were expressed about an increase in traffic on Eastrea Road.

Mr Oxley said that, using feedback from the consultation, Sainsbury’s expected to submit a planning application to Fenland District Council in the next month.

He said: “We were extremely happy with the turn out at the exhibition and are very grateful to the nearly 800 local residents who took time to come and look at our proposals.

“It is great to have so much support for the proposed new store and 54-acre country park in Whittlesey, with 90% of respondents in favour of the scheme.

“The development would allow residents to shop locally while providing up to 250 jobs in store, and more in the later phases.

“The country park was very popular – we received some very constructive suggestions for what could be included which we are looking at in detail.”

To look at the plans visit www.sainsburys-whittlesey.co.uk or for more information on the development call 0800 019 5878 or email info@sainsburys-whittlesey.co.uk