SUPERMARKET giant Asda has announced plans to move back into its 225,000sq ft warehouse in Didcot in a move expected to create a “significant” number of new jobs.

In 2009 Asda switched from its base on the Southmead industrial estate to a new £42m Asda ‘eco’ distribution depot in Sutton Courtenay.

The building replaced the distribution centre three miles away at the Southmead Industrial estate and included an additional 250,000 sq ft of space.

More than 400 employees, including 100 drivers, work for Asda in Sutton Courtenay.

Now Asda has announced it will also reopen the warehouse on the Southmead industrial estate. The new centre will allow Asda to extend the product range on the Asda Direct website.

Spokesman Julian Pearce said: “This will create a significant number of new jobs over the next 18 months but we can’t say how many at this stage.

“The Didcot base will service the chain’s general merchandising needs, including some of our stores, and some online sales.”

Asda is working on the new project with logistics specialists Clipper.

South Oxfordshire District Council leader Ann Ducker said: “We welcome the new jobs that are being created.”

The announcement follows Tesco’s bid for a major new distribution centre for online customers at Milton Hill near Didcot, which would create as many as 750 new jobs.

Neighbouring firms have expressed concern that the planning application for a 119,155sq ft warehouse with 28 delivery van loading bays and 193 van parking spaces will lead to increased traffic congestion in the area.