ASDA bus promise

SUPERMARKET giant ASDA has pledged to spend £500,000 on local transport if its Solstice Park store in Amesbury gets the go-ahead.

As part of the plans for the 36,000 sq. ft shop, ASDA will provide a new bus service operating a curricular route around the town, linking residential areas with the bus station.

It also plans to contribute to the existing Solstice Park bus service, provide a new cycle link and footpath to Bulford and build two new pedestrian crossings and a bus stop on Porton Road.

"Our proposed improvements to local transport and infrastructure will ensure that our new store will be as accessible and sustainable as possible," said ADSA spokesman Tom McGarry.

"Studies have shown that 65 per cent of local residents are currently leaving Amesbury to shop.

"Our contributions to local transport will help keep those shoppers in the locality and that will benefit other local businesses in the town and the environment.

"As well as providing great access for customers by foot, bicycle and bus, the planned new store would be 20 per cent more energy efficient than a similar ASDA store built in 2005."

ASDA says its new supermarket will bring 350 jobs to Amesbury.

Salisbury District Council's Northern Area Committee is expected to reach a decision on the application when it meets on Thursday, March 13.

Salisbury Journal 7th February 2008