AN opening date has been set for a new store moving into the old Marks and Spencer unit in Northwich.

B&M will soon be opening its doors at the 36,000sq ft unit in Leicester Street, which has stood empty since M&S left town in August 2019.

The company says the new store will open on Thursday, October 15.

On its website, the retailer said: "Our Barons Quay store provides everything you’ll need for your household and lifestyle, including groceries, wine and beer, baby food, pet food, health and beauty products, home accessories, electricals, DIY equipment, toys, games, gifts and plenty more besides."

B&M had applied to Cheshire West and Chester Council for a licence to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm, seven days a week.

The retailer has not yet confirmed the store’s opening hours, but it would be subject to Sunday trading laws, with the old M&S having been open from 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

It will be the latest in a line of recent additions to Northwich town centre, including BEAR and Geek Retreat at Barons Quay, and serves as another welcome boost following the loss of New Look and Dorothy Perkins over the summer.

The two-storey building, which sits by Barons Quay, was built in the 1980s and operated as Sainsbury’s before becoming M&S.

Speaking to the Guardian when B&M’s licensing application was made, town centre ward member Cllr Sam Naylor said: “We have got to seize on any positive to allay the feeling of despondency that faces not only us but high streets all over the UK.

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“I am sure there will be more bad news to come but at least we can see something like this. It is a changing landscape but companies like B&M are still moving forward and opening stores.”

B&M also has a Home Store in Chesterway, near Lidl and Pets at Home.