The B&Q store on Hull Road in York is set to close and be replaced by Sainsbury's, after a deal was made between the two companies.
B&Q has informed employees at the store of its intention to close and to find an alternative site. The DIY retailer intends to continue having two stores in the city and will look for an alternative site near the Hull Road store to complement its other York store at the Clifton Moor Retail Park.

Currently the building at Hull Road is used for the sale of DIY products only, and subject to gaining approval from City of York Council, it will be converted to allow the sale of supermarket products.

B&Q's covering divisional director for north, Steven Blair, commented: "B&Q has a strong presence in York having opened our first store at Foss Island in 1986. We intend to continue to offer our York customers a choice of two stores going forward.

"Through this deal we intend to secure a new store to replace our store at Hull Road. The new, replacement store will continue to offer our York customers everything they expect from B&Q.

"It is with regret that we announce our intention to close the store at Hull Road but we will continue to serve our customers there to the highest possible standard over the coming months."

Sainsbury's has informed the council of its intentions for the proposed store, with a sales area of 60,000sq ft, that "will offer the full range of Sainsbury's products", according to the company. It will now consult with the local community over its proposals prior to submitting a planning application.

A similar move has been made by Homebase recently, which will be closing its Bolton store at the end of next week, but no replacement store is planned, however.