Plans for the former Marks and Spencer food hall in Sevenoaks to be replaced with a Poundworld are history.

The M&S branch in Bligh's Meadow surrendered its lease on Tuesday ahead of opening its new, long-awaited superstore in London Road on Wednesday.

The Kent Messenger can reveal that it was set to be taken over by the budget brand - until the building landlord decided against the change.

Public opinion was split on the possible introduction of the store just doors down from a current 99p store, with many residents scared it could cheapen the town.

A spokesperson for Poundworld today confirmed the company would not move in to the Bligh's Meadow building, but was now looking at other potential sites in Sevenoaks.

She added: "We regret to announce that we will not be taking over the Marks and Spencer site. The building landlord decided he did not want a single priced bargain retailer in the premises.

"He didn't think it would go down well in Sevenoaks. It is a shame for Poundworld, but bosses are still looking at other options."

Poundworld could not reveal which potential sites were being discussed.

A spokesperson for Bligh's Meadow also confirmed the former food hall would not be replaced by the discount store.

She said: "I can confirm that M&S have surrendered their lease and the unit is currently being marketed by our letting agents who have been instructed to market the unit.

"They have not ruled anyone in or out at this stage and would be delighted to speak to any prospective tenants."

The cut-price Yorkshire-based company was launched in 2004 and has over 180 stores nationwide.

The Sevenoaks branch would have been the first in west Kent and East Sussex.