York's jobs market has been given a shot in the arm with the forthcoming opening of three major retail outlets.

TAKING IT TO THE MAXX: The site of three new shopping units which are to open soon next to the Sainsbury's supermarket at Monks Cross

The recent news that 392 workers face redundancy from the Monroe's car parts plant - which is relocating - came as a body blow to the city.

But the business community has welcomed the further development of the successful Monks Cross site, near Sainsbury's superstore.

Accompanying the existing shopping park - which includes names like Next and Going Places - is a three-unit 40,000sq ft retail park, half of which will be taken by TK Maxx - a no-frills fashion and homeware retailer selling famous labels for up to 60 per cent less than usual prices. The rapidly-expanding American firm hopes to create around 50 new jobs, and it is hoped that the company's future neighbours will employ similar numbers.

TK Maxx has already started advertising for personnel for its newest UK store. And the people behind the Monks Cross expansion are in talks with other potential tenants.

Jack Peacock, letting agent for site developers Huntington Ltd, said: "We are in discussion with other retailers at the moment. "We are looking for high quality names, rather than the usual "shed" firms selling DIY and things. We want clothing or homeware firms and there is a lot of interest and we are hoping to sign others in the next few weeks. It's all good news for York."

Jenny Allan, of TK Maxx, said York is prime turf for the company's growth, adding: "Monks Cross has established itself as a strong out-of-town retail park and we are confident that our concept of famous label goods for less will prove an attractive offer for local shoppers."

Tony Bennett, assistant director of economic development for the City of York Council, said: "We always welcome new jobs coming into the city.

"We like to see expansion in retail jobs in York but they need to be balanced with job creation in other areas, like manufacturing."

Roland Harris, chief executive of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, added: "Retailers coming here is a vote of confidence in York, but we have to make sure their presence is sustainable.

"As a Chamber, we welcome retail expansion. The fact that jobs are being created is beneficial for the economy."

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