A FROZEN food supermarket could open up in Bolton — but a shoe shop has to close first.

Brantano shoes and footwear has a branch in the Central Retail Park in Manchester Road, just outside Bolton town centre.

But Iceland bosses have submitted plans to Bolton Council in an attempt to transform the store into a frozen-food outlet.

If permission is granted and work goes ahead, Brantano would have to move out.

Despite requests for information, Brantano has not told The Bolton News whether it plans to open elsewhere in the town or close for good.

The Bolton News understands Brantano bosses had not told staff at the shop about the proposal.

A spokesman for Brantano said: “Unfortunately, there are no directors or senior management staff available for us to obtain information from so we are unable to comment.

“The run-up to Christmas is always a busy time of year.”

Iceland chiefs have also remained tight lipped about the proposal, which would create five full-time jobs and 30 part-time jobs.

A spokesman said they would comment on the proposal if the company gets planning permission. Iceland has applied for permission to install a new shop front displaying the Iceland logo, relocate the customer entrance and install security shutters.

According to a report given to the council, Iceland would be open from 8am to 8pm on weekdays, 8am to 7pm on Saturdays and 10am to 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

While Iceland currently has branches in Horwich and Farnworth, it does not have one in Bolton town centre.

It would be close to the £1 million specialist meat shop, which could be set to open in the former World of Fashion store. This would also create 30 jobs.

The council is aiming to reach a decision on the Iceland application by January 16 and, if it grants permission, the shop could open anytime afterwards.