Plans by Tesco to open a superstore in Silsden have been welcomed by local councillors.

They believe a new supermarket would bring desperately-needed jobs to Silsden while cutting town-centre congestion.

They claim it could also keep money in the town without having an adverse effect on existing small traders on the main street.

Tesco this week revealed its interest to the Keighley News following rumours that several supermarket chains were looking at Silsden.

A spokesman said: “Tesco is exploring opportunities to bring a superstore for people to do their weekly grocery shop in Silsden. We will be keen to consult with the community on any plans if we do conclude on a suitable proposal.”

Several residents have reported calls from unnamed researchers asking for their views on whether a supermarket was needed.

The interest of supermarket chains is understood to focus on two sites on opposite sides of Keighley Road, on the Steeton side of Silsden.

One site is currently occupied by conveyor and transmission belt manufacturer firm Habasit Rossi, which is actively seeking a supermarket chain willing to buy its premises.

Habasit hopes to use the proceeds of the sale to build a better factory on an adjacent field so that it can remain competitive.

The other site is the former Weavestyle factory, next to Silsden AFC's ground, which has been empty for several years. The factory's car park was last week occupied by travellers.

Bradford councillor Andrew Mallinson, who represents Craven ward, said: "I've heard there are a number of potential supermarket operators seriously looking at Silsden - the top brands.

"I think Silsden is desperately in need of additional retailers - it is a growing town. What we need is a good retail offer - food and leisure - so that the money stays in Silsden."

Coun Mallinson believed that having a major store on Silsden's outskirts help reduce the need for some people to drive into the town centre.

He added: "I can't see it having a detrimental impact on the established town centre shops. It's not going to affect those because they have a clientele that will always go there. It still has a village feel."

Coun Chris Atkinson, the Silsden mayor, said there was a need for employers following this month's announcement that hair company ghd planned to move its 15 Silsden staff to Leeds.

He said: "The town is big enough to withstand a supermarket. All we need is work - the more we can get the better. If it brings the jobs it doesn't matter what kind."

Town and district of councillor Adrian Naylor said he had been told about the company owning Silsden people for their opinions on a new supermarket.

He said: "It was market testing, which is one of the steps they would have to take to justify and demonstrate demand."

Coun Naylor preferred the Habasit site for a superstore, because the project would also help a local company prosper.

He and Coun Atkinson said it was important the new occupier was found for the ghd premises, which are on Ryefield Way.

Coun Naylor said: "This is zoned for employment so I wouldn't like to see it standing empty for some time. There is a need for well-paid jobs within the town.

"I want to ensure what we already have is fully utilised before we start breaking down the greenbelt for employment facilities. Let's use what we have first."