A major deal has been signed by a household name in the retail world which will transform a development near Cheltenham.

Mid-Counties Co-operative has been revealed as the new anchor tenant for Bishop Cleeve's Homelands' office and retail park in a move it is understood could create as many as 20 new jobs - with more across the rest of the site.

Its new 3,000 sq ft supermarket will be at the heart of what is described as a "village square" by County to County, the Cheltenham-based developer behind the scheme.

Paul Maguire, partner at John Ryde Commercial, agents for the site, said: "Bishops Cleeve is a growing settlement. There are now more than 1,000 houses on both sides of the Evesham Road.

"This commercial facility will help service the expanding residential area. There will also be additional space for a range of uses."

A further 7,500 square foot of retail and office space is also being marketed by John Ryde which could include shops, offices, medical facilities, a nursery - whatever the needs of the growing population are, said Mr Maguire.

It is space expected to be let quickly.

"The Co-operative supermarket should be built quite quickly as there is detailed planning permission already in place," added Mr Maguire.

It is understood the current aim is to have the supermarket built and open by Christmas.