A huge distribution centre and charity shopping outlet is set to permanently close.

The Demelza branch in Maidstone will be shutting to make way for the council’s proposed redevelopment scheme.

The charity supports children and their families who are facing serious or life-limiting conditions.

It has a massive outlet in Loverose Way, just off of Sandling Road, which sells furniture, clothing and homeware, as well as a large selection of children’s items and books.

Demelza announced on Friday (January 26) the centre would be closing.

A statement said: “Our current lease for the Sandling Road site is coming to an end and will not be renewed as the area forms part of Maidstone Borough Council’s (MBC) wider redevelopment plans for the town centre.

“We are currently working on a shortlist of new suitable locations to relocate to and will announce details of this new premises once confirmed.

“In the meantime, we are delighted to be opening our new shops in Earl Street, Maidstone and Orpington in 2024.”

The distribution centre is next to the former Royal Mail Sorting Office, which was bought by Maidstone council for £2.5million.

Plans were submitted last October to turn the site into 217 flats – made up of five apartment blocks.

They would be a mix of one, two and three-bed and all have a balcony or terrace.

A commercial space for shops and restaurants on some of the ground level was also included.

It is still awaiting a final decision.

The new Demelza branch is located next to the Druids Arms pub and Timpson. It is in the unit formerly home to recruitment company Reed.

Clothes rails and mannequins can already be seen inside and a sign on the door says it will be opening soon. An exact date is yet to be revealed.

It will be the second shop in the town centre, with a branch already open inside the Royal Star Arcade.

The last day for donations to be made at the distribution centre will be next Monday (February 5) and the final day of trading at the outlet is set to be on Saturday, March 2.

Other branches nearby include Rochester, Walderslade, Rainham and Hempstead Valley.

Donations can also be made at the sheds in Sittingbourne hospice until Saturday, February 24.

It will then be closed to the public to allow staff to manage stock for the relocation.

Customers are being asked to call up in advance to check capacity and to see if the charity team can accept the donation.