Home Bargains has revealed how it will fill an enormous empty Morrisons store amid overwhelming support from residents in response to its overhaul plans.

After speculation the discount homeware giant would be taking on the former supermarket site in Faversham, it has been confirmed in planning documents lodged with Swale Borough Council.

Bosses at the firm have revealed their plans to change the 1,709sq m retail space, by expanding the entrance area and installing a new shop front.

They are also proposing a complete resurfacing of the car park, which will see new cycle parking in exchange for the loss of nine vehicle spaces.

Known for its many independent retailers, Faversham is also set to welcome its first ever Poundland, which is set to take over the former M&Co unit in Preston Street.

With Home Bargains moving to the town, shoppers on a budget will have more choice than ever and residents are welcoming the change.

Nearby resident Lesley Seager, commenting on the council’s planning portal, said: “I for one can not wait for this store to get planning approved and open. It will inject some fresh life into Faversham and also help with people who can not travel out of town.

“I know many people say shop local but most can't afford to when some retailers charge nearly £5 a loaf and £9 for a bar of soap, this discount store is needed to help those who are not so well off.”

Others added they were in support of the scheme to see it remain as a retail site and provide ongoing employment for the town.

Lisa Eades commented on the plans: “Not only will the store create a variety of jobs, it will also add to the retail mix of the town.

“Given that Home Bargains has stores in neighbouring towns, it is unlikely that it would lead to increased vehicular traffic volumes and would be a good use of a large retail space that may otherwise remain empty for an extended period.”

However, some concerns have been raised regarding light pollution for the neighbouring homes in West Street.

It was confirmed in July this year, the Morrisons superstore in North Lane would bring down the shutters for good and close up on September 17, shocking many members of the community.

The company blamed the store’s closure on unsustainable economic performance and was done as it sought to consolidate its assets.

Despite this Morrisons confirmed that all those staff at the Faversham branch who requested redeployment were found alternative roles within the company.

Home Bargains has not publicly confirmed its intentions for Faversham before but an email from Morrisons bosses, seen by KentOnline earlier this year, revealed plans were in place to sell the site to the business.

The email also stated Home Bargains expects the new branch to open by the end of 2023.

Home Bargains has more than 500 sites around the UK, growing rapidly since it first opened in Merseyside 47 years ago.

There are currently 10 in Kent with nearby Sittingbourne, Canterbury and Whitstable all offering customers what the company calls “top brands, bottom prices”.

Faversham Town Council has objected to the proposals in light of several concerns, requesting the firm to reconsider its plans to resurface the car park, instead asking they retain the existing paving to maintain permeability.

They have also asked for assurances the existing creekside public footpath running to North Lane will be maintained and provision for electric vehicle charging retained and “preferably increased”.

In a letter to Swale Borough Council’s planning office, Home Bargains said: “This application comprises a considered package of works that will refurbish the unit to suit the trading requirement of the incoming national discount retailer, with due consideration for the site’s heritage value and location within Faversham’s conservation area.

“The proposed works will allow the building to be refurbished to a high standard, in order for Home Bargains to expand their existing trade offering in the south east. With existing stores in Sittingbourne, Whitstable and Canterbury, Home Bargains has a strong requirement for a new store in Faversham.

“Whilst significant in terms of its positive effects, the planning application is modest in nature. The unrestricted retail use is well established, and the proposals result in a reduction in overall retail floorspace.

“The proposal is however significant in terms of the benefits that will be derived should permission be granted, including the reoccupation of a prominent and strategically located retail unit anchoring the edge of Faversham town centre.”

Home Bargains has been approached for comment.