A major supermarket has announced it is to double the size of one of its high street stores.

The Sainsbury’s Local branch in Western Road, Brighton, is to expand in January, the food giant has announced.

Shopping floor space is to increase from 1,800sqft to 3,000sqft, with more products and extra aisles planned.

The shop will take over part of nextdoor JJB Sports, which is now closed, and the front will be extended along Western Road.

Sainsbury’s has promised wider aisles and new internal signage, which will help customers to navigate the store more easily.

The expansion will also include two self-scan checkouts to cut queues.

Store manager Nathan Crombie said: “We think the extension and improvements to the store are great news for customers.

“It will feel bigger and it will be easier for customers to shop. With the new space we will be able to provide our customers with more choice and a bigger offer.”

The supermarket said it did not need planning permission for the extension because the former JJB sports shop was already being used for retail.

But a spokeswoman added that a minor application may be needed for changes to the shop front.

Sven Rufus, Green councillor for the Regency ward, said: “My first thought is that we do not want to see shops empty in the main shopping area so it is good that businesses want to move in.

“It is also good that the big four supermarkets are turning towards car-free shopping.

“But it also means they’re tightening their stranglehold on the high street.

“I would rather see a bit of diversity but it is better to see Sainsbury’s there than seeing the shop stand empty.”

Is the expansion good news for the area? Tell us below.