AROUND 40 jobs are to be created when a catalogue giant opens a new superstore in Colne next month.

Argos is set to open one of its Argos Extra stores at Boundary retail Park on November 5.

The store will create both full and part-time jobs, as well as additional temporary Christmas roles in the first few months.

Coun Dorothy Lord, who is chairman of the town council and sits on the town centre forum, said the extra jobs were good for local people, but the store could have a knock-on effect on the town centre.

“I am concerned about the effect these out-of-town stores are having on our town centre,” she said.

“Everybody is aware that there is a knock-on effect, independent shops suffer and people don’t visit the town centre any more.

“There is also an effect on our neighbouring towns who get fewer visitors because we have so many national chains at the retail park. But on the plus side, the number of jobs created is great news for the town, especially given the period we have been going through. Hopefully it will get a few local people back into work.”

It is understood the Argos Extra store will be near Next and Marks and Spencer at the Corporation Street retail park.

Coun Howard Thomas said: “Any creation of jobs in the area is a boost for Colne.

“I think people would love lots of manufacturing jobs but retail is the new manufacturing.

“With Boundary Mill, Next and Marks and Spencer already there, it will hopefully bring people from further afield to Colne, who will then stay in the town and spend more money elsewhere.”

Vicky Armstrong, area manager said: “Opening an additional store in the area allows us the opportunity to bring our cust-omers the added convenience of purchasing locally.

“We are confident the offer at the Boundary Retail Park will be popular with our customers.”

Argos bosses have confirmed that the existing Nelson store in the Victory Centre will remain open.