Published: Friday, 5th February, 2010 2:00pm

Major store eyes Oak Mall move

by Elaine Grundy

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MALL MOVE: Chain may come to Greenock.

A MAJOR English chain is considering opening a massive new store in Greenock.

Wilkinson - which has more than 300 stores across the UK- is considering a site in the Oak Mall.

It's thought the company is interested in the former Woolworths store. If the plan goes ahead, it will mean a major jobs boost for Inverclyde.

Wilkinson sells toys, games, furniture, garden and pet supplies as well as home goods, DIY equipment and electrical items. A Wilkinson spokesman said: "I can confirm our estates department is looking at Greenock as a potential site for a store.

"We believe the town would offer us a great opportunity and we would love to give residents great-quality products at our famous low prices.

"At present, however, we are still investigating potential sites, so I am unable to say anything is definitely going ahead."

Wilkinson was founded in Leicester 70 years ago and now has 330 stores across Britain.

The firm says it is seeking to become a household name in every high street and opened stores in Irvine and Clydebank last year.

Another store is due to be launched in Kilmarnock next month.

It is too early to say how many jobs would be created but it is expected to be a substantial number.

The Woolworths store has lain vacant since it closed in December 2008.