THE ARRIVAL of a new Iceland store in Macclesfield has created 33 jobs – and heralds a much-needed boost to town centre trade.

After months of shop closures and redundancies, the opening of the frozen food giant on Mill Street comes hot on the heels of the launch of a Fat Face fashion outlet in August.

For many in Macclesfield, Iceland’s arrival at the old Woolworths site marks a much-needed glimmer of light at the end of the recession tunnel.

Councillor Bill Livesley, president of Macclesfield Chamber of Trade, said: "As a councillor and as a member of the Chamber of Trade, I’m pleased to welcome (Iceland) to Macclesfield. I hope they have great success.

"It’s a positive thing for Macclesfield rather than a negative one, a shop is opening rather than a shop closing for a change!"

Earlier this year the Express reported more than 20 shops were empty in the town centre – including the old Woolworths.

This week, the new store got the thumbs-up from opening day customers.

Mum Liz Moores, 50, from Park Green, Macclesfield, said: "More shops being here is good for Macclesfield. I think it's really good, it's cheap and has a lot of variety.

Kelly Freeborn, 21, added: "I’m a student so it’s brilliant to able to get cheap food."

Bosses of the supermarket chain, which bought out 51 Woolworths stores after the company’s collapse, are hoping it will be the first of many new stores.

A spokesman said: "Iceland has been experiencing significant sales growth over the past four years which is driven by an increase in new customers and increased spend from existing shoppers.

"The credit crunch has accelerated that growth as customers look for better value for money.

"We are delighted to be opening our new store in Macclesfield and we are pleased to be able to contribute to employment in the local area."