WORK could soon be underway to transform “an eyesore” in Southbourne Grove.

Huge interest has been shown in taking over the former convenience store with retail giant Sainsbury’s one of those under consideration.

Owners, the Quantum Group, said restaurant and bar operators, retailers and fitness operators are all looking at the site and that an announcement will be made within weeks.

“The building is an absolute eyesore” said Quantum’s Simon Hammond. “Nothing has been decided yet but it will enhance the area and pull people down to that end of Southbourne Grove.”

Some independent retailers in the area have voiced concerns about a big company taking over the building but Mr Hammond added: “I can’t see how it will affect local traders adversely.

“We will be doing a high-class refurbishment of the building and it will look modern and interesting.”

A spokesman for Sainsbury’s confirmed the company’s interest in the premises and said: “We are exploring an opportunity to open a Sainsbury’s Local convenience store on Southbourne Grove and will keep the community up to date as our plans progress.”

Mr Hammond said he believes Sainsbury’s may be considering more than one property.

Southbourne Grove is one of the few areas in Dorset to be bucking the national trend with an influx of new traders and big names.

Recent months have seen the arrival of a Costa Coffee, as well as a number of independent traders including a fishmonger, specialist tea shop, delicatessen and restaurants.