A new £450,000 Co-op has opened its doors to customers for the first time.

The shop is the first Co-op for New Romney and indeed the whole of Romney Marsh.

It has launched in Littleton Road following a lengthy construction process.

It has taken over a brownfield site previously described as an “eyesore” and provided jobs for 16 people.

The shop features an in-store bakery, a Costa Coffee Express machine and a free cash machine.

Store manager Gordon Hebdon said the team is enjoying settling into the new location.

“We have had a great response, and it is a proud day to have launched Co-op’s newest store,” said Mr Hebdon.

“Our aim is to operate at the heart of local life and we have worked to develop the range, choice and added services to create a compelling offer to serve our community and visitors to the area, conveniently.”

The planning application for the 2,250 sq ft centre was filed in 2020.

At the time, one resident described the previous derelict site as an “eyesore” invested with vermin, and welcomed plans to put the area to good use.

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“The existing eyesore is overgrown and a continuous problem housing a large population of vermin and a dangerous playground for young children,” commented Bob O’Connor.

“The new development is a huge improvement bringing a much needed local food store and more importantly a large number of local jobs.”