A FORMER pub that fell into disrepair has been transformed into a supermarket due to open this month.

The Apollo Pub in Pinner Road shut in 2007 and was allowed to fall into disrepair as plans for its future failed to materialise.

Residents described the vandalised and run-down building as an “eyesore” and Labour politicians began to call for something to be done as it emerged Tesco had bought the pub but not acted to stop the decay.

More than three years after the pub closed, a new supermarket has been built, and it is due to open on August 27.

The firm, which already has a host of stores in the borough, says 14 new jobs have been created, with employees all “from the local area”.

Masud Majunder, store manager, said: “In this time of economic uncertainty, it is great we are able to create jobs and help get people back into work.

“I am really pleased with my new team and I’m looking forward to working with my new staff.

“We are delighted to be opening a Tesco Express store in Harrow, and look forward to playing an active role in the community.”

The new store does, however, provide further competition to nearby Pinner Road shops.

Business owners have been complaining to Harrow Council that there is insufficient parking for customers which is affecting trade, and will now have to cope with a new convenience store with its own parking.