MORE than 200 jobs will be created for local people when a massive DIY store opens in South Bank early next year.

The B&Q store, on the Cleveland Retail Park at Skippers Lane, will employ 240 staff and management, with over half in full-time employment.

The 153,000 sq ft development, which opens on February 13, is expected to attract 18,000 customers a week and generate £20m in its first trading year. Staff recruitment will begin this September.

This week councillors, council officers and community groups from Redcar and Cleveland were given a presentation on plans for the store.

B&Q new stores manager James Greaves told the meeting: "We're not another faceless, multi-national store for your borough - we're very, very community minded."

He outlined the company's 'better neighbour' policies, including developing sustainable transport, with car-sharing and encouraging cycling to work, pledges for no 4am deliveries and available grants and donations for community groups.

Councillor Mark Hannon, chairman of the council's overview and scrutiny committee, said the authority welcomed B&Q with open arms.

He said: "They are bringing real jobs to the areas of high unemployment and we hope as many local people as possible can take advantage of the forthcoming employment opportunities."