A NATIONAL store chain is set to open a county town convenience shop this summer almost two years after receiving planning permission.

The Co-operative is set to open a new food store on Overross Street in Ross-on-Wye and create 15 new jobs in August.

The new £500,000 development is on the former site of Overross Garage and Ross Hand Car wash, and business representatives say they are recruiting local people with a passion for food, customer service and community.

Erin O’Mahoney, Co-op area manager, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to carry out such a significant investment in Ross-on-Wye – we are proud to become part of the community, and our ambition is to ensure our store is a local hub, a real asset locally.

“We are investing in our people, stores, products, prices and communities – our aim is for our store to be at the heart of local life, bringing communities together and offering great quality products, when and where our members and customers need them.

“We also want customers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op. And, that we are also giving back to the community.

“Our members make a difference locally, simply by swiping their membership card when they shop with us they raise much needed funding for organisations in the area who contribute to improving local life.”

The Co-op – which won the title of Convenience Retailer of the Year at the latest Retail Industry Awards – has this year unveiled a £50m price investment programme to cut the cost of everyday essentials including fruit, vegetables, bread, fresh meat and ready meals, as well as household brand names.

There will be offers and promotions in and around the new store to mark its launch.

Students and apprentices in the area holding the NUS extra card receive a 10% discount off their groceries to support them during their studies.