A TESCO store in Oxford has shut as part of highly-controversial plans to build 137 student flats above it.

The branch on Cowley Road has now closed for 30 weeks while the works are carried out.

The supermarket confirmed that it plans to start work at the Tesco Metro redeploying its staff to other branches, and leaving the busy East Oxford street with one less essential shop.

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Plans to redevelop the supermarket were approved by Oxford City Council in 2019 despite objections from locals.

In February, residents shared their concerns about being froced to travel further afield to get their shopping.

In addition, there will also be traffic controls for construction vehicles on Chapel Street, the side street to the east of Tesco.

Colin Hamilton, store director for Oxford Cowley Road, said: “We are excited to be planning a significant refresh of our store which will lead to a much-improved shopping experience for customers.

"We apologise for any inconvenience the temporary closure of the store causes and would like to reassure the community we’ll be back as soon as possible and providing our usual great service in a store which is fit for the future.”