An international pizza chain has swung open the doors of its latest venture from inside an old abandoned high street bank.

Domino’s Pizza, which operates in India, China, Japan, Australia and beyond, recently set up shop in New Romney’s former Lloyds branch.

The firm, which has preserved the bank’s horse emblem at the top of the building, says it will employ 40 staff, including cooks, delivery drivers and other staff.

The opening ceremony took place last Thursday with a ribbon-cutting, where town mayor Cllr John Rivers, community members and customers attended to meet the new staff.

This branch, now the 21st Domino’s in Kent, gave out 100 free personal pizzas to the first 100 customers.

The store is open from 11am to 11pm serving up meals including Pepperoni Passion and Vegi Supreme alongside new additions such as the recently launched Ultimate Lasagne and Ultimate Carbonara Pizzas.

Mithat Deniz, Senior Manager: “We’re excited to come to New Romney. We are passionate about enhancing our new community with employment opportunities, where people can grow and develop their careers.

“More than 90% of Domino’s store managers started in-store or as a delivery driver, so whether you’re looking for a few extra hours or a completely new career path, there are roles to suit everyone.”

One resident objected to a planning application submitted by the chain to Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC).

“The old Lloyds building has character and is of local historical significance,” they wrote.

“The new signage associated with a pizza shop would ruin the look of the building and would not fit with the surrounding area.

“Additionally the high street is a very busy road any deliveries to and from a pizza shop would likely interfere with the flow of traffic or block spaces in the public car park to the rear of the premises, which will limit the availability of parking for visitors to the high street, which will have a knock-on effect for existing traders.”

But planning permission was granted in November, with the takeaway giant arguing it would attract footfall to the area.

The Lloyds branch closed in 2022 and plans for the fast food chain to move to New Romney had been revealed last year.