Supermarket chain Morrisons plans to build a mini-market in Steeton.

The Morrisons M branch could create up to 20 jobs at the 443 sq m Skipton Road site.

Bradford Council gave planning permission for a convenience store at the site in September, but it was unknown which firm was interested in the scheme.

Ward councillor Andrew Mallinson this week welcomed news a major supermarket chain could move into the village.

Morrisons, which is based in Bradford, confirmed to the Keighley News it hoped to build the store, but stressed the project was at an early stage.

The company said it was keen for its stores to be integral to community life, and that its focus was very much on fresh food.

Morrisons spokesman Laura Stubbs added: “We’re in the early stages of discussion about bringing a Morrisons M local to Steeton.

“We look forward to sharing our plans with the community should things progress.”

The original planning application for the site included a 12-space car park and a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road to improve safety.

Council planners said the outlet would be located at a sustainable, central location, and would address a “retail deficiency” in the village, despite some concerns about the possibility of additional traffic congestion.

Responding to Morrisons’ announcement, Coun Mallinson said: “It has to be good for Steeton. It’s nice we are potentially getting a major name in the retail market that has got a good solid brand.”

He added this was another boost for residents of Craven ward, following the news earlier this month that Aldi wants to build a supermarket in nearby Silsden. If accepted, Aldi’s proposal is expected to create and safeguard more than 100 jobs.

As part of its plans for Steeton, Morrisons has applied to Bradford Council for a premises licence for its store.

The application states the company is looking to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm – from Monday to Sunday inclusive – at the Skipton Road premises.