The Cadbury chocolate shop at Chatham's Dockside Outlet Centre is to close permanently.

The confectioners, which sells sweet treats, gifts and memorabilia, has been at the shopping mall for 18 years.

It is one of the longest-running businesses there and is the latest not to renew its lease.

The shutdown follows the announcement that discount store Poundstretchers is also leaving after six years.

Centre manager Anthony Sutton said: "As far as Cadbury's is concerned, both parties agreed not to renew the lease.

"And with Poundstretchers, we are undergoing advanced negotiations with a new occupier."

Mr Sutton said an announcement would be made shortly.

Last summer Boomers, a popular Australian-themed cafe, left after battling with the effects of lockdown.

Villagio and Friendly Phil's, opposite the complex, shut earlier this year after the company which owned them went into administration.

The outlet centre is housed in a Grade-II listed building at Chatham Maritime.

Its anchor store The Range continues to thrive and has recently added a range of Iceland frozen food and a Jonas and James kitchen showroom to the site.

It has also undergone modernisation and refurbishment work this year.

Next and M&S have discount outlets at the centre.

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