HARDWARE chain Wilkinsons looks set to take up a prime spot in Bicester’s town centre.

The firm has submitted plans to refurbish the former Co-Op supermarket site in Market Square, which closed last Saturday with the loss of more than 40 jobs.

Meanwhile, a year after budget supermarket chain Aldi got planning permission to build a store at a former gas works in Launton Road, work has started to clear the site. Aldi has yet to confirm when building work will start.

Wilkinsons confirmed it was opening in Bicester but said it was too early to say how many jobs would be created.

Store manager Duncan South said: “I can confirm that Wilkinsons has submitted a planning application to Cherwell District Council for works relating to a brand new store, which is set to open to the public in early 2012.

“We are looking forward to creating jobs for local people, which will include a variety of roles, from sales assistants and security officers, to stock supervisors and warehouse staff. We feel we also have a great deal to offer shoppers in the town and we’re looking forward to becoming part of the close-knit community in Bicester.”

According to the plans the store will open seven days a week, the front and rear doors will be retained, and its 3,122 sq metre interior will be gutted.

The move has been welcomed by traders and the town’s chamber of commerce.

Chairman Ben Jackson said: “Wilkinsons’ commitment to Bicester means another national store is recognising the potential of the town.

“It is essential that all the town centre shops are supported while the essential redevelopment is underway.

“This way Bicester will retain well-balanced shopping with both independent and national stores.”

Work is due to start in January on Bicester’s town centre redevelopment, which includes a supermarket, cinema, shops and restaurants.

Steve Warne, manager of Home Goods, based in shopping precinct Deans Court, next to the former Co-op/Somerfield site, said: “It’s good news for Bicester and better than having an empty store. It will benefit retailers in Deans Court and the rest of Bicester.”

Ros’s Alterations owner Ros Andrews, also of Deans Court, said: “I prefer someone going in there to an empty shop, and will be quite happy with whoever takes over.”

Elsewhere in the town Bicester Wools is expanding and relocating from Deans Court into the former Beans building in Sheep Street.

Owner Ellie Hewison, who runs the shop with husband Rowland, said: “We are hoping to take our business to the next step and expand our range and start offering workshops and classes.”

Beans closed last month after owners Chris and Maureen Bean retired.