Primark has confirmed that it is to open a store at Bluewater.

Following KentOnline's exclusive report this morning, a spokesman for the discount fashion chain has revealed that it is scheduled to open in 2019.

They said: “Primark will be opening a store in Bluewater, which is currently scheduled for completion in 2019.”

KentOnline revealed earlier that staff at existing retailers have been informed that the discount fashion chain is coming in the near future and that it will replace Early Learning Centre (ELC) on Upper Thames Walk.

Employees at ELC are said to have been given written notice that it will be moving downstairs and setting up shop inside Mothercare on the Lower Thames Walk.

Mothercare bought ELC in June 2007 for £85 million and has since opened a number of them inside existing stores across the country.

Sources in the local business community had also suggested to KentOnline that Primark's arrival was on the cards.

An opening at Bluewater had been long-rumoured but recent additions to the shopping centre have been upmarket luxury brands such as kate spade new york, which so far has no UK stores outside London, and Michael Kors.

Primark already has seven stores in Kent, located in nearby Dartford and Gravesend, as well as Chatham, Maidstone, Canterbury, Thanet and Folkestone.

Bluewater has been contacted for comment.