The company is planning to open a new 30,000 sq ft shop at Broughton Shopping Park in time for Christmas.

The Asda Living store would not sell food, and would instead concentrate on clothing, homeware, health and beauty, furniture, electrical goods, music and games.

It is thought the new Asda would replace the Woolworths store at Broughton when it closes next month.

Philip Bartram, Asda's property communications manager, said: "We are hoping to open a new Asda Living Store at Broughton Shopping Park for this Christmas.

"Our Asda Living stores showcase the best of our non-food offers, including our popular George clothing range, home and leisure wear and furniture.

"Our plans will also generate 80 full and part-time jobs for local people."

The scheme is subject to planning permission, and Asda is stressing that nothing has been finalised.

If the store goes ahead, staff working more than 16 hours a week will receive a discount card, sharesave options, training and development and a contributory pension.

There are currently 15 Asda Living stores across the UK, with more set to open over the next five years.

As we revealed last week, the Woolworths store on Broughton Park is closing, leaving 70 staff facing an uncertain future.

A Woolworths spokesman said: "After much careful consideration, Woolworths has made a business decision to close its 24,500 sq ft store in Broughton Shopping Park.

"The company has surrendered the lease to the landlord and we will cease trading on June 7.

"All 70 permanent employees will now commence a 30-day consultation period to discuss their individual futures and alternative employment opportunities at Woolworths.

"Woolworths has 10 other stores within a 30 minute drive from the store including the Chester city centre store in Foregate Street and large stores in Wrexham, Birkenhead and Runcorn.

"All other Woolworths stores are unaffected."