Construction work has started to build a Tesco store and a children’s nursery in Peterborough in a move that will create 46 jobs.

The new food store will sit next door to the Busy Bees nursery in the Aqua Drive development that is under way at Hampton Water.

Developer, the Harkalm Group, says the development will bring new amenities, jobs and childcare places to the community.

The development is expected to be completed by next summer.

This image shows how the planned Tesco at Hampton Water, Peterborough, will appear once completed.

placeholder image — This image shows how the planned Tesco at Hampton Water, Peterborough, will appear once completed.

It will create about 46 jobs plus 110 childcare places for families in the area.

The site will also include four electric vehicle charging points, providing cleaner energy options for visitors to the development.

The company states that the project forms part of the group’s aim to deliver much-needed amenities within local communities, with both the new food store and nursery designed to serve residents in and around Hampton Water.

Charles Percival, associate director at The Harkalm Group, said: ‘We’re really pleased to be bringing Aqua Drive forward in Peterborough.

This image shows the Busy Bees nursery planned for Hampton Water, Peterborough

"The development will deliver practical benefits for the local community, from new jobs and childcare places to a convenient new food store for residents.

"‘As construction gets underway, we’re looking forward to seeing the site take shape and working with the local community to make the development a positive addition to Hampton Water.”

The company say that people will be able to help it fund local charities.

A spokesperson said: “Residents will be invited to vote for one of three charities using a QR code displayed at the development.

The three charities are Little Miracles, which supports families of children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions, The Mintridge Foundation, which uses sporting role models to support and inspire young people; and Extended Hands, a Peterborough-based charity supporting and empowering women and girls.

"All three charities will receive a donation from The Harkalm Group.”

Residents will also be invited to contribute to a Community Art Wall, which will be displayed on the side of the food store.

The spokesperson said the art wall aimed at giving the community a sense of pride and ownership in their local amenities.