Supermarket firm eyes station unit

SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury’s is looking at opening a new store in Dundee — and could end up occupying a unit at the city’s railway station, the Tele can reveal.

The retailer is interested in bringing a new outlet to the city and is considering a number of locations.

One of those is a newly-created retail unit within the station building, which is still under construction.

If Sainsbury’s was to occupy the unit, it would be the company’s second shop in Dundee, as it already has a supermarket at Tom Johnston Avenue, near Broughty Ferry.

Ryden, which is marketing the new station retail unit, says it is under offer but has not revealed any further details.

A spokesman for Sainsbury’s told the Tele the firm was “interested in opening a new convenience store in Dundee, but has no firm plans at the moment”.

But a source confirmed the retailer was eyeing a number of different sites and was “aware of the opportunity” at the railway station.

The potential for the arrival of a major retailer such as Sainsbury’s at the city’s redeveloped Waterfront has been welcomed.

Alison Henderson, chief executive of the Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, said: “Having a store like Sainsbury’s in the Waterfront is a good indicator of big brand confidence in the city centre.

“It’s a trend to see retailers create a space within stations where they cater for the many travellers passing through.

“It’s also a good store for the working population within the area and a great first step towards filling the Waterfront with bustling shops and people.”

The city council, which has led the redevelopment of the Waterfront, including the new station, insists no retailer has yet struck a deal.

Councillor Lynne Short, convener of the city development committee, said: “As yet negotiations have not been completed on the retail unit at the new Dundee Railway Station.

“When there is a final agreement in place an announcement will be made.”

Ryden says in an online brochure that the unit, which measures 336 sq ft, will be available for occupation in early 2018.

The Tele previously revealed that the £38 million new station entrance — which will also include retail, office, cafe/ bar and ATM facilities — will open in March.

Sainsbury’s has recently invested in Dundee by installing an Argos unit within its existing supermarket.

When that unit opened earlier this year, the company said it remained committed to keeping its other Argos store in the Overgate Centre.

An artist’s impression of new station. Top: Sainsbury’s existing Dundee store.