Worth the Waitrose

Waitrose claims the new store, at Hartshead Moor service station, will create 20 new jobs, and bring in passing trade from the M62.

Rod Mckie, chief executive of Welcome Break, says: “This new store at our Hartshead Moor services on the westbound carriageway of the M62 is just the latest in our ongoing expansion plan, creating a total of 20 jobs for the local community. The Waitrose stores we have opened at our other sites in the north have proved incredibly popular, and we believe this new store will also become a real customer favourite.”

The shop is set to open at the end of March. The company said it will be open 365 days a year until 10pm.

Viv Laycock, chair of the Spenborough Chamber of Trade, said: “It’s quite a posh shop, isn’t it!

“In the past, there was talk about a Lidl and an Aldi coming to Cleckheaton and we didn’t get one, so this is quite surprising.

“But I think it’s a good idea – that’ll do nicely.”

Readers of the Spenborough Guardian had mixed reactions to the news.

Matthew Crowther said: “It would be good if it was in Cleckheaton town centre – a change from Tesco and Fultons!”

Mark Hepworth agreed and added: “I suspect Highmoor Lane will be even busier with cars parking up and people walking across like they do already for Starbucks.”

Grahame Hancock simply added: “Cleckheaton needs an Aldi.”