WORK to build a new budget supermarket which will create 40 jobs is underway, with an opening date expected next summer.

Construction of a new Lidl supermarket, in Northwick Road, Canvey, is progressing well after the land was sold to the chain by previous owner, Castle Point Council leader Norman Smith.

Lidl is working with construction firm Adston to build the store which will create up to 40 new jobs when it opens.

The build is expected to take eight months.

Community leaders and residents are delighted to see the chain coming to the island.

Peter Greig, Canvey Independent councillor for Canvey Winter Gardens, said: “I am quite pleased about this.

“It’ll be great to have one of these stores on the island as I know so many people go off Canvey for Lidl.

“I am very pleased to see the chain sees Canvey as a good investment.

“It’s always good to have more jobs created for Canvey people.”

Laura Goodman, 33, of Long Road, Canvey, added: “It’ll be so popular and is a very good move.

“I think it’s also good for other stores on the island to have competition; I know Morrisons has ruled the roost for years on the island.

“It’s great news that we are getting ore jobs and I really hope the island residents are a priority.”

Andrew Hodgkinson, Lidl GB regional head of property, said: “There’s been much anticipation for this new Lidl store and it’s great that we are now in a position to break the ground and start the build.

“We are extremely grateful for all the support that we have received so far, and would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding whilst we enter this next phase of the development.”

The proposal was first mooted in July last year when Mr Smith was contacted by Lidl asking if any of his land was available for sale.

According to a survey by the firm, a total of 939 residents were in favour of the brand building a new store on Canvey and only 35 were not.