A building society is set to open its doors to customers after moving into an empty shop.

Nationwide staff will move from the High Street to the former Clarks shop at the entrance to the County Square Shopping Centre.

The site had been empty since the shoe shop closed in March 2014, and Nationwide revealed its plan to relocate in March this year, having previously dropped earlier plans to do so in 2014.

Nationwide eventually decided to relocate so it could offer more space and offer new services, including the Nationwide NOW video link service, which connects customers with specialist advisers.

Branch director Mandy Beech said: “We have listened to feedback from our customers in Ashford about what they wanted from their local branch and we have acted by opening a bigger branch with more space, designed so it’s easier to have a relaxed conversation.

“The branch will feature our brand new 4C design concept – convenience, conversation, consultation, and community focus – which will help us to serve our communities better.

“Technology is revolutionising banking, but customers want the choice and convenience to do what they want, wherever they are, at the touch of a screen.

“While technology provides convenience, it is our people who offer service. That’s why, as a mutual, we passionately believe in the future of branches and the people within them.

“We are investing highly in our branch network because it is in our branches that our people help, support and advise the millions of members who choose to visit us every day.”

The branch will open at 10am on Monday, September 11.