WAITROSE is a step closer to building a new food store in Alton.

Managers were on site on Monday to cut the first sod along with contractors, Bowmer and Kirkland Ltd.

Work to demolish the old Mirion Technologies building in Station Road began in mid-February since when the ground has been cleared, enabling the contractors to make a start on the foundations for the 31,000 sq ft store.

Work on the structural framework will be under way in April with the shop fit-out expected to start in July for eight weeks, prior to the shop opening in September.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.