WORK is finally all set to start on the new Waitrose store, which is being built in Bromsgrove town centre.

Bromsgrove District Council has already completed phase one of the sale of the land on Hanover Street, which has been sold to local developers Hinton Group, and work is now set to start on the Waitrose store on the old Market Hall site in early September.

Council leader Geoff Denaro, said: “This is excellent news and demonstrates this council’s commitment to creating a better Bromsgrove.

“Not only will this mean jobs for the town but there is even more reason for people to stop off in our town centre and enjoy our eclectic mix of high street names and independent traders.”

Hinton’s development director Jon Hinton, added: “After many months hard work, we are delighted to have now completed on the purchase of the land from the council.

“We continue to work hard behind the scenes with our consultants and now that we have agreed contracts with our selected contractor, look forward to starting on site in early September.

“Our works will continue to early March, at which point, Waitrose’s shop-fitters will take over before an anticipated opening in Spring 2017. Being based in Bromsgrove, this project is incredibly important to us. We are very proud to be playing our part in delivering the regeneration of our town centre, and are committed to achieving similar success with the remainder of the site.”

The new store is set to bring 60 full and part-time jobs to the town, as well as a contribution from developers to improve the A448 Kidderminster Road, Hanover Street and St. John’s Street junction.

The store will have 86 car parking spaces, including four disabled and two parent and child spaces, as well as four motorcycle spaces and a secure area to hold eight bicycles.

Ward member Councillor Margaret Buxton added: “I am looking forward to work starting on the site and improvement to that end of the town.”

The Hanover Street car park will continue to operate until August 18, and from them on people will have to make alternative arrangements.

Permit holders for the car park will be able to use other long stay car parks, a full list of which can be found at bromsgrove.gov.uk.