WATERFRONT residents have been handed a convenience boost when Britain's largest supermarket chain opens its doors tomorrow just a few yards from the historic docks.

WATERFRONT residents have been handed a convenience boost when Britain's largest supermarket chain opens its doors tomorrow just a few yards from the historic docks.

Tesco has opened an Express store on the Modus development of apartments and townhouses on Duke Street.

The news further enhances amenities at Ipswich Waterfront, with the store being within walking distance of Neptune Marina and Orwell Quay as well as the new developments at Regatta Quay and Cranfield Mill.

Liz Harsant, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said: “This is very important for the Waterfront area.

“I have spoken to residents about Tesco Express and they are very pleased about it.

“They will just be able to walk from their apartments to get a few bits and pieces which is fantastic.”

Express stores are usually found at petrol stations and are aimed at local customers who want a convenient place they can trust to 'top up' their shopping or replace home essentials.

At 5,959 sq ft, the Duke Street store is close to twice the size of a typical Express store which usually stock around 2,800 lines, including fresh and frozen food, ambient goods and a bakery.

The cost of renting the unit is understood to be around £100,000 a year based on a cost of £18 per square foot each year on the 5,959 sq ft area.

Last month The Evening Star revealed a total of 24 new restaurants, cafes and bars are in the pipeline for the area including a Pizza Express restaurant at Regatta Quay.

Are you in favour of Tesco moving to the Waterfront? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk