WAITROSE will remain in its current Marlow store until January 2011, the company has announced.

The supermarket giant had previously said it anticipated moving out – to be replaced by Sainsburys – this summer.

But now an agreement has been reached for Waitrose to stay in West Street until next year.

Sainsbury's has taken the lease on the premises and had its own planning application to expand the store approved by Wycombe District Council earlier this year – subject to certain conditions.

Waitrose has also told the Free Press work on its new basket only store in Chapel Street will begin in October.

The conversion of the empty Chapel House offices opposite Liston Road car park ensure no jobs will be lost.

It will open soon after Waitrose has handed over the West Street shop on January 16 2011.

More than 1,100 residents from the Marlow area recorded their support for the relocation when plans were put on display at the branch last year.

Waitrose director of development Nigel Keen said: “We are delighted that we can now begin planning for our new store in Chapel Street and a new chapter for Waitrose in Marlow.

“Chapel House is an exciting opportunity for us to build on nearly forty years of trading in Marlow and we look forward to playing a continued role in attracting shoppers to the town.

“Most importantly it offers the opportunity of continued employment for our Marlow Partners within the business. Their expertise and experience will be invaluable in ensuring we continue to offer our customers a first rate service.

“We have been overwhelmed by the goodwill received from local residents and we would like to thank everyone for their patience and support during this process.”