A NEW supermarket is set to move in to the former Focus DIY superstore at Tarpots in Benfleet.

Aldi is in the final stages of completing a deal to buy the site, which has been derelict since Focus DIY collapsed in 2011.

Earlier this week, Castle Point Council, which had been renting the car park to provide free parking to shoppers, was given seven days notice to vacate the site.

Shopkeepers had raised fears the closure of the car park would lose them trade.

However, they have welcomed Aldi’s arrival at the site and the announcement Castle Point Council is hoping to strike a deal with the retailer to continue providing free parking.

Jason White, of JD Cycles, at Tarpots, said: “We would be really happy if a supermarket moved on to the site.

“Our biggest fear was it would be sold for housing, which would cause months of disruption and lead to us losing the car park.”

Staff at neighbouring La Boom also welcomed the news and said it would be good for the area.

Aldi, which has around 500 stores in the UK, announced earlier this year it was looking for development sites in Castle Point and highlighted Benfleet and Canvey as preferred areas.

Benfleet councillor Bill Dick said: “It will be good to see the site put to good use.

“I know many residents want a new supermarket and hopefully if Aldi do come to Benfleet then this will meet their needs.”

Castle Point Council confirmed the former Focus DIY car park will be closed on Thursday while the legal formalities on the sale of the site are completed.

The new owners are set to take over on October 2. The council confirmed it is in contact with them to have the car park reopened as soon as the sale is completed.

David Marchant, chief executive of the council, said: “Castle Point Council recognises the vital importance of this car park to local businesses and residents and we are doing all we can to make sure the car park is reopen