TESCO has been given permission to move into Bexley Council’s civic offices in Bexleyheath when the council moves to the old Woolwich Building opposite.

The supermarket’s application for a 10,000-square-metre store with 494 parking spaces, which could create 370 full and part-time jobs, got the go-ahead from Bexley Council’s planning committee on Friday (July 13).

Three shops, restaurants or cafes will also be built on the site as well as a community area, which is expected to house the Citizens’ Advice Bureau and Bexley Voluntary Services.

The application is part of Bexley Council’s plans to relocate to the old Woolwich building opposite in Watling Street, which was granted permission last month.

The council said moving to one big site, rather than the previous four, will save around £1million a year.

At Friday’s meeting, permission was also granted for 126 homes – 48 houses and 78 apartments – at the back of the Woolwich building.

Tesco’s corporate affairs manager, Matthew Magee said: “We are delighted with the committee’s decision.

“We have been committed to investing in Bexleyheath for some time and we have worked with local residents, groups and the Council over a number of years to shape our proposals, which we now look forward to delivering.

“The multi-million pound investment scheme includes a new Tesco store and some smaller shops and restaurants, bringing around 370 new full and part-time jobs to the area, many of which will go to local people.

“The residential application being delivered by Bellway will provide 126 new homes alongside dedicated residents’ parking, gardens, play space and landscaping.”

Bexleyheath and Crayford MP David Evennett said: “I am pleased that the iconic building has been saved for Council office use and that much-needed new housing will also be built.

“These proposals are a welcome investment in Bexleyheath town centre and a significantly better proposition than having a Tesco superstore on the Woolwich site.

“I also hope that the developers will work with local residents to minimise any disruption and address any issues that arise during construction.”