A NEW Co-op Late shop and two other stores are being built in Halebank, the World can exclusively reveal.

The shopping parade will open early in September, as Asda closes to relocate to Widnes town centre.

Plans to build 104 houses on the supermarket site have also been unveiled.

Cllr Rob Polhill, board member for development, said: "We did say we would do all we could to regenerate Halebank and put something back when Asda moves out. Residents will continue to be consulted.

"We are committed to building houses on the Asda site to try and bring more families into the area. This will safeguard the school and support the new medical access centre and shops."

Work has already started on the 5,000 sq ft development in Hale Road at the junction of Pickering Road.

A pharmacist is understood to be interested in one of the units. The third tenant has not yet been confirmed.

Hot chickens, croissants and French bread will be baked at the Co-op. An off licence will be included. Plans for a cash machine and lottery outlet are in the pipeline.

Chris Moss of the Co-op, said: "Our Late shop format has proved very popular wherever we have located and we are looking forward to opening for trade in Halebank."

Around 15 jobs will be created. Most are expected to be offered to staff made redundant by the closure of Co-op's store at the Windmill Centre.

Widnes Regeneration, the joint company between Halton Council and St Modwen Properties is developing the site.

Developer Paul Batho, said: "The new district centre will introduce a new high quality retailer to the area which will serve the needs of the local community.

"The project represents a significant step forward in the planned regeneration of the Halebank area."