THE Journal can exclusively reveal today that Waitrose is the national retailer in talks to open a store in Evesham town centre.

The high-end supermarket chain has confirmed it is “keen” to come to Evesham, with the development being planned for the site of the fire station and the Old Brewery car park in Merstow Green.

As part of the deal, the fire station would be sold to the council and the land redeveloped, with the station being moved to Wychavon District Council’s Abbey Road depot at no cost to the fire service.

Councillor Paul Middlebrough, leader of Wychavon, said: “We’re currently in discussions with Waitrose about the possibility of them coming to Evesham. If this is successful it will be a fantastic boost for Evesham and part of our priority to promote a strong economy.”

Gerry O’Donnell, chairman of Wychavon and the Evesham Market Town Partnership, said the prospect was testament to the hard work of people in Evesham.

He said: “I am particularly pleased they are looking at the town centre. The market town partnership and Wychavon work tirelessly to attract major investment and this is a tribute to the efforts.”

Talks are ongoing and it is expected a final decision will be made on July 1 when the Waitrose board will hold a meeting and later in the day there is a special meeting of Wychavon District Council.

The next step would see a planning application submitted as early as September.

Mayor Mark Goodge said: “It would be good to see another supermarket in the town centre, particularly one like Waitrose. ”

A Waitrose spokesperson said: “We are very keen to bring Waitrose to Evesham.

“However, these discussions are at an early stage and should we be in a position to progress with the proposal, we would still be subject to planning consent.”