A DEVELOPER has announced plans for a new supermarket in the Holme Valley.

Headrow Property Management today revealed its blueprint to build a store between Honley and Brockholes in a move which it claims could create 300 new jobs.

A Huddersfield architect predicted a “beauty parade” between the would-be store at Hope Bank Works and the controversial proposed Tesco at Holmfirth.

Three supermarket chains have been asked if they are interested in the Honley site – including two companies who would be newcomers to Huddersfield.

Colne Valley MP Jason McCartney, who lives in the village, last night welcomed the proposal.

“I think there’s a general view that there’s a need for a supermarket in the valley,” said the Conservative.

“This provides a third option to the Tesco proposal for Holmfirth and the rumoured development at the Drake’s site in Honley.”

Mr McCartney added that the Hope Bank Works plan is being driven by local people – Huddersfield architects Acumen and Felix Eaton, who owns shopfitters Replan at the site.

“He plans to re-configure his site so he can offer this land for a supermarket,” said Mr McCartney.

“This is a locally driven plan from a Huddersfield planning group and a Honley business.

“I think it’s an interesting option.”

Jeremy Child, managing director of Huddersfield architects Acumen, is helping draw up the Hope Bank Works plan.

He believes Kirklees Council will have to choose between his proposal and Tesco’s plan to set up a store at the former Midlothian Garage in Holmfirth.

“The reality is that with a retail development, planners have to look at whether there are any preferable sites,” he said.

“This is a viable alternative to the Tesco plan.