A TESCO Express store will be built on the site of the former Liquid and Envy nightclub in Redhill.
Plans to convert the dilapidated Station Corner spot into an apartment block and retail unit were given the green light last week.
Though no mention was made as to which outlet was moving in during a 25-minute council debate over the plans, a notice on the developer's website – Angle Property – says they have exchanged an agreement with Tesco Stores Ltd.
The plans were approved by members of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council's planning committee on Wednesday last week – despite concerns.
Cllr Sarah Finch said she found it "galling" that no affordable housing would be included in the development.
Cllr Graeme Crome echoed her concerns, but added he would be "surprised" if no affordable housing was made available as building work progressed.
Praising the plans and the council's push to bring in new development – which will see the former 1930s Odeon cinema converted into 61 apartments – Cllr Natalie Bramhall, the authority's executive member for regeneration, said: "Town centre regeneration is very difficult in this economic climate and this development shows the council's commitment to Redhill."
The new application follows a similar one that was approved last year, which involved a larger retail unit but only 47 apartments.
The building will retain its locally-listed facade, but the rest will be demolished and rebuilt.
It also follows other major plans to renovate Redhill, including the approved redevelopment of Sainsbury's, which will see a larger retail unit, gym and hotel added to the site, and plans to completely overhaul Redhill railway station with 150 homes, a multi-storey car park and a Waitrose supermarket.
Business leaders in the borough said the combination of new developments was sure to change the face of the town and bring in much-needed new stores and shoppers.
"Definitely the scale of what's happening is only positive and the impact is going to be good for everybody," said Belfry Shopping Centre boss Andy Nash.
"The supermarkets are going to be competition for our shops, but most people travel out of Redhill to do their shopping.
"If they stay or come into the town, then they'll extend the trading."
