THE OPENING of a new B&M Bargains store in Halesowen has been put back.

The store, which is coming to the Cornbow Shopping Centre, was expected to open shortly after Easter - but will now open in the summer.

It is believed works by the landlord to convert four units into one have taken longer than anticipated.

A spokesman for the shopping centre said its builders are nearing the end of four-months of works on the massive 10,000 ft2 store - after which they will hand over to B&M Bargains' shopfitters.

A B&M spokeswoman, said: “We’re delighted to confirm we’ve exchanged contracts on a brand new store in Halesowen, subject to building work completion by the landlord.

“There is some work to be completed before we can get the keys and confirm an opening date, but we’re hoping to be open in the summer.

“We’re really looking forward to creating more jobs for local people and welcoming customers through the door in the summer.”

B&M Bargains is the third new retailer joining the centre as part of a £1.2m investment - Heron Foods and Costa Coffee have already opened.

Eve O’Connor, the Cornbow’s centre manager, said “We can’t wait for this store to open.

“It’s going to make a huge difference to the centre experience as B&M will occupy four units - many of which have been vacant for some time - and fill an entire side of the square at the head of the mall.

"It’s on the ground floor - bang opposite Costa, which opened in February and is trading well.”

On the ground floor, at the head of the Cornbow mall, B&M replaces New Look and Roman Originals as well as two vacant units.

The management of the Cornbow said it is faring well compared with other town centres which it competes with.

Eve said: “The Cornbow line-up just goes to show how people still want real shops where they can pop in and grab a bargain or to touch something before they make a considered purchase.

“B&M is famed for top quality brands at bargain basement prices.

“We’ve invested £1.2m to improve the centre and that’s paying off with all these new lettings in recent months – B&M, Costa and Heron.

"Community is key and that’s what keeps us going.

"We’re very grateful for such a loyal shopping catchment.”