A LIDL superstore is on course to open this autumn, creating 40 jobs.

The German supermarket chain was given permission in January to develop the store at the corner of Progress Road and Rayleigh Road.

About 1,500 people applied for jobs there.

The controversial application split the community, with three-quarters of visitors to a public consultation backing the scheme, but nearby businesses signing a 53-signature petition against it.

The chain bought up Safestore for £1.3million.

Lidl reduced parking spaces from 74 to 72, and will hand over £25,000 to improve the Rayleigh Road and Progress Road junction.

The firm changed the design after being turned down twice by Southend Council and got it passed on the third attempt.