Revealed last year by developer Ashfield Land, the development would be built on a five-acre site west of the roundabout that links the A90 at the AWPR Stonehaven Fastlink interchange.

Tesco’s involvement is expected to create around 100 jobs.

Steven McGarva, director at Ashfield Land, said: “There has been huge interest in the project and we’re pleased to announce that we have now purchased the site and agreed terms with a quality operator in Tesco.

“Discussions are ongoing with a national operator for the EV hub and we will make an announcement on that shortly.

“Stonehaven Gateway will promote the town as a forward-facing and sustainable destination, supporting the region’s goals to increase the uptake of electric vehicles. It will also deliver a number of significant benefits to the local economy, including a new diverse shopping experience as well as the creation of significant new jobs.”

Public consultations on the initial proposal received overwhelming backing, with 89% of respondents supporting EV charging at the development and more than 92% “definitely” wanting to see new high-quality retailers at Stonehaven Gateway.

Marcus Vinnicombe, property acquisitions & disposals director at Tesco, said: “We are excited to be working with Ashfield Land to develop plans for a new Tesco supermarket at Stonehaven Gateway.

“This superstore would offer a range of food and non-food goods, such as clothing, as well as provide DotCom deliveries and a Click+Collect service. We anticipate it will create around 100 new jobs.”

A detailed planning application for the proposed Stonehaven Gateway project is expected to be submitted in the coming months.