TESCO has issued a statement over plans to open a new store on the Isle of Wight.

As reported yesterday, proposals have been put forward by Tesco to join together 35 and 36 Newport High Street, the former Laura Ashley store, to provide a new branch.

Planning documents have been submitted to the Isle of Wight Council by chartered surveyors, and it states Tesco Express on the document.

A Tesco spokesperson has not confirmed the news, however.

They said today: “We’re always looking at the best ways to serve our customers on the Isle of Wight and will share any plans for new stores in due course.”

Laura Ashley, the clothing and home retail shop, closed in 2020, after the Covid pandemic had a significant impact on business and saw administrators appointed.

The shop has been empty ever since but looks likely to be filled by the supermarket chain which already has stores in Ryde, Wootton, Ventnor, Lake and Freshwater.