Morrisons is set to create 20 jobs with the launch of its convenience-style format M Local.

The store will be based at Number Two Smith Street, formerly the Nile nightclub, which has been empty for two years.

The building was originally constructed in 1810 as the Wellington Hotel and developer Millerbrook Properties has pledged to sympathetically revamp the historic site.

Millerbrook added it expects the scheme to be the catalyst for further investment in the building.

Richard Ward of Millerbrook said: “Morrisons represents a key milestone in the delivery of this exciting mixed use project we are working to bring to the town centre, which will also include a café/wine bar facing towards The Butts.

“We are currently in discussions with potential occupiers to turn this project into a reality. From the outset, Rochdale Council’s planning team and the Rochdale Development Agency have been really supportive and have helped make this happen.”

Richard Farnell, leader of Rochdale Borough Council and cabinet member for regeneration, added: “The fact that Morrisons want to come to Rochdale shows that they know the town centre is on the up.

“We are working hard to bring big names here because it’s what our residents and visitors want and, more importantly, the economic boost will bring much needed investment and jobs for the people of our borough. Now that we are building this momentum, we are expecting other businesses to follow suit.”

The store is set to open early next year.