EG Group plans to replace Farnworth SPAR forecourt with new Asda store

Plans have been lodged to demolish an ‘underperforming’ petrol station and replace it with an Asda convenience store.

EG Group, who operate the Filling Station, Long Causeway, Farnworth say the proposals would enlarge the shop at the site, currently SPAR branded and create up to 25 full-time and part-time jobs.

The Blackburn based EG Group run by the Issa family, also own the Asda brand and operate petrol stations and convenience stores in the UK, Europe, USA and Australia.

In planning statements lodged with Bolton Council within the past week, the firm said “the existing petrol filling station is under performing and positive alternative uses have been sought to stop long-term vacancy.”

The statement, added: “The application is being pursued to enable the site to be occupied by national retailer ASDA.

“The use of the land as a convenience store would result in a continuation of a retail use at the site, enabling job retention and creation and an increased level of choice and value for customers who will overwhelmingly be drawn from the immediate locality.

“The proposed store, when open, would generate up to 25 full-time and part-time job opportunities. The majority of these job opportunities will be available to local people. Job opportunities within the store will be across a range of scales.

“In addition to jobs within the store itself, other employment opportunities will be created through the construction phase.

“It is noted that there are other convenience goods retailers in proximity to the site. “These comprise a Tesco Superstore; a Lidl store and an ASDA Superstore within the Farnworth town centre boundary.

“The proposed store will fulfil a local ‘top up’ function rather than act as a comprehensive convenience store.”

The application, concluded: “The proposal will result in significant economic benefits in the form of job creation. Further to this it will enable to continued, positive use of the site.

“The proposed use is in a wholly appropriate location given it’s in centre status and the proposals are for a small‐scale convenience store which will compliment existing stores and provide additional choice and value for customers.”

Planners in Bolton will decide on the plans in the coming weeks.