By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There is huge anticipation to find out when American Wholesale retail giant Costco will build and open its planned new site in Gloucester.
Proposals for a new 13,109sqm store along with an 18 bay petrol station with tyre fitting shop in Barnwood were unanimously approved by city planners in December.
The redevelopment of the former Interbrew site in Eastern Avenue is expected to create up to 250 jobs.
Costco bosses said at the time when the plans were debated by Gloucester City Council that the new store would lead to a significant investment in the city and reuse of a site vacant for seven years.
They told councillors they “own the site and wish to commence the development as soon as possible”.
The company was asked this week when construction would begin and whether there is an estimated opening date for the Gloucester store.
However, Costco said it was their policy not to comment but say they are grateful for the support they have received.
Residents have been in touch with the Local Democracy Reporting Service and are keen to know when the site will open.
Civic chiefs are pleased the company is investing in Gloucester and are looking forward to the work commencing.
The city’s Labour MP Alex McIntyre said: “It’s fantastic to businesses like Costco investing in our city.
“Their new store will provide much needed jobs and will revitalise an area of the city that has been undeveloped for a long time.
“I’m looking forward to the work getting started.”
And Conservative City Councillor Andrew Gravells (Abbeydale) said he supports the creation of new jobs in Gloucester.
And while he won’t be deserting his local Morrisons branch, he is interested to find out how Costco’s prices compare.
“Costco first contacted me when I was the cabinet member for planning and housing about their wish to open in Gloucester,” he said.
“It was something I was very keen to support, and still am. The new store will create new jobs and add to the range of retail outlets here in Gloucester, offering greater choice.
“I won’t be deserting the Abbeydale Morrisons when Costco opens but I will be interested to see what Costo has on offer, and how prices compare.”
A spokesperson for Costco said they did not have any further information at this time.
“Unfortunately, it is our company policy to not comment regarding future Costco warehouses or construction until we are ready to share details about the new location,” a spokesperson said.