Discount retailer Home Bargains is to open its new shop in Whitfield near Dover in October.

The new store, which replaces the vacant Homebase, will bring new jobs to the area, although the number of positions has not been revealed.

The retailer has confirmed it is now recruiting store assistants, supervisors and cleaners in time for the opening in mid-October.

Drawings, submitted to Dover District Council, show what the store will look like after permission to renovate the space was granted last July.

A new application asks for permission to install a number of internally illuminated fascia signs, mounted onto the building and onto a totem.

A spokesman for Dover Town Council said: “At this difficult time when the future looks uncertain for some workers, the confirmation Home Bargains is opening in Dover is very welcome news.

“The council continues to work hard in promoting the town and the many opportunities it can offer businesses and local people.”

A spokesperson from Home Bargains said: “Our Dover store is due to open in mid-October. We are currently recruiting for store supervisors, store assistants and store cleaners, and would encourage those interested to head to our careers website for more information. As a result of our constant growth, we’re always looking for new staff across the country.”

Homebase closed in October 2017 and the site has stood empty since then.

Cllr Trevor Bartlett, leader of Dover District Council said: “This is good news for the district, and we are always pleased to welcome businesses investing in the district, and bringing new jobs to the area.

"This is a positive sign of the continued confidence in the district for investment.

"Dover District provides a fantastic location for businesses, with excellent transport links, including the proposed new Dover Fastrack bus service, which is set to provide a new public transport link between Whitfield and the town centre.

"We’ve been working hard to make sure the district is well prepared to continue to build for the future, and we are looking forward to welcoming Home Bargains to the location.”

To search job opportunities, visit jobs.homebargains.co.uk

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