A Pizza Hut restaurant in Kent is set to shut this week.

The pizza chain in Prospect Place, Dartford, has announced it will close permanently after more than 20 years at the site.

It sits at the entrance to the retail park, opposite B&Q, and will be shutting from Saturday, July 20.

It has now been revealed that American fast-food chain Popeyes will take over Unit 14.

At the end of June, a planning application was submitted to replace the existing Pizza Hut signage with four internally illuminated fascia signs and four decorative graphic signs.

The exterior of the building is also being repainted.

Popeyes was founded 49 years ago in New Orleans, starting as one small restaurant.

Its chicken is marinated for 12 hours in its signature blend of Louisiana herbs and spices.

Best known for its shatter crunch chicken sandwich, the chain has more than 3,700 restaurants worldwide and opened its first branch in the UK at the end of 2021.

Just a few years later, it already has 48 UK restaurants, with more expected to open this year.

A job listing for a general manager for the new branch was first posted in May, and Popeyes is now hiring for additional roles such as shift manager and assistant manager.

The nearest locations to Kent currently are in Woolwich and Lewisham, making the Dartford branch its first in the county.

A Pizza Hut spokesperson said: “We can confirm that our Pizza Hut Restaurant site in Dartford will close on July 20.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, however, if you are looking for a dine-in restaurant and our famous buffet, Bluewater is a short drive away.

“Alternatively customers can enjoy their favourite pizza delivered in Dartford, or order from our website.”

Popeyes has been approached for comment.