Tesco sets its sights on Princes Street

A MAJOR supermarket chain has applied for planning permission to open a branch in Princes Street this summer.

Tesco wants to refurbish the former Boots store – a listed building – at the west end of the city thoroughfare.

More than 20 jobs will be created if the Tesco Express outlet is given the green light.

A spokeswoman for the chain said: “We are delighted to be investing in Edinburgh with a new Tesco Express store at the west end of Princes Street.

“We are pleased to be bringing back to life a vacant unit and adding to the vibrancy of this world-famous street.

“The Princes Street store will offer a fantastic range of quality products including fresh groceries, toiletries and household essentials.”

In November last year, Tesco was given the go-ahead to sell alcohol at the planned store, despite objections from NHS Lothian.