Ocado has revealed the new development for the Erith distribution centre will provide around 3,000 jobs.

The grocery retailer revealed more details for Bronze Age Way development on Tuesday (Feb 5) when it posted results of its first ever annual profit.

A spokeswoman confirmed to News Shopper that when the £98.8 million building is fully operational in 2017, it should provide around 3,000 jobs and will be firm’s “most efficient” distribution centre.

There is also the potential for the company to share the 35-acre site with Morrisons.

Erith and Thamesmead MP Teresa Pearce said: “This is very good news for Erith and Thamesmead and going forward I will be having early discussions with Ocado and working with JobCentre Plus and Resources Plus to make sure that residents who have been unemployed for more than a year are given a chance to be recruited."

Ocado’s CEO said: “The developer is expected to commence work on the site in the first half of 2015, with our works starting next year and with a plan to commence operations during 2017.

“Ocado has an option from the developer exercisable by April, to use the site also for Morrisons.com on improved rental terms.

“In this event, the ramp up of capacity will be completed sooner and the costs and capacity of the centre will be shared with Morrisons.”

News Shopper revealed on Friday (Jan 30) Ocado had announced plans of the new centre in Erith.