SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury’s has rubbished claims that its new Weymouth branch is to close or be turned into a DIY store.

The supermarket, at the Weymouth Gateway site, opened in October last year.

Rumours of the store’s closure have recently been shared on social networking sites.

Stephen Smith, Sainsbury’s property communications manager, said the shop – which employs more than 300 staff – is trading ‘really well’.

He said: “We’re delighted with our new store in Weymouth and the reception it has had from local shoppers.

“It’s trading really well and the new team has settled in and are loving their new store.

“Our new Weymouth store is one of our new ‘triple zero’ stores – built to exceptionally high environmental standards and one we’re very proud to be trading successfully from.”

Nationally, Sainsbury’s has recorded its lowest sales growth for nine years.