A RECESSION-busting 60 jobs could be on offer in Wilmslow if supermarket giant Sainsbury's is given the go-ahead to extend its store.

The company hopes to create an extra 10,000 sqft of space allowing them to fill new vacancies from "the local community" for part and full time jobs.

The famous supermarket chain is set to gauge shoppers' opinions on the plans - which are still in their infancy - before lodging an official planning application.

Christian Wakelin, regional development surveyor for Sainsbury's, said: "The Wilmslow store is extremely popular and can become very busy at peak times. The extension could create up to 60 new jobs, of which most would be recruited from the local community."

Proposed changes to the Alderley Road store include gutting the existing first floor and opening it to customers with a cafe - and an improved entrance and exit area.

Other plans involve the company attempting to reduce its carbon footprint with 'environmental features' as well acoustic screening for noise reduction from delivery vans.

"These proposals are aimed at improving the shopping experience for existing customers," said Christian.

"The entrance lobby can become cramped and improvements to this area should improve the ease of getting in and out of the store for customers."

But before Sainsbury's pushes ahead with the scheme, residents and shoppers can have their say. Plans for the work will be on display in the store on Friday, September 11, from 12pm until 7pm, with members of the project team on hand to answer questions. The display will remain in store for a further week with feedback leaflets.

Christian added: "We would like to hear the views of the local community and our customers, so I would encourage them to come along to view the plans and give us their feedback.

"It's really important that we hear what people think before we submit a

planning application."

Sainsbury's hopes to submit a planning application with Cheshire East Council in the next few weeks.