SUPERMARKET giant Asda hope to create 40 jobs by enlarging and improving one of their North-East stores.

The American-owned retailers are planning to update their six-year-old Bishop Auckland store where a new mezzanine floor would enlarge the shopping area by 19,000 square feet.

Proposals being put to council planners also include a new customer café and a changed layout with wider aisles.

Acoustic screening is being installed in the service yard, where neighbours have complained about noise from deliveries.

Asda’s property communications manager Philip Bartram said: "Since we opened our store is has become an important and established supermarket for local people.

"However, shopping needs have changed during this time and the store is in need of updating and improving.

"At a time of financial uncertainty, out proposals will deliver 40 jobs for the local community and give customers a greater choice of Asda products.

"We will work closely with Jobcentre Plus to target local job seekers."

Customers will be asked for their views on the plans when they go on show in the store from Thursday until Wednesday January 14.