An opening date has been confirmed for an eagerly-awaited new store that will create a jobs boost at Sittingbourne Retail Park.

Bosses at Marks and Spencer confirmed today that the new Foodhall will be opening on Wednesday, March 8 at 10am.

The new shop, next to Halfords in what was Lukehurst Furniture, will provide 70 new full and part-time jobs and will sell food and drink.

It will also have a bakery and a 48-seat café offering hot and cold drinks, cakes, snacks and light meals.

Mark Miskin has been with M&S for more than five years and will be taking the helm as store manager.

He said: “We’ve been hearing lots of excitement in the build up to the new Sittingbourne Foodhall around the local community and the team and I are really excited to welcome them to reveal everything our store has to offer.

“There will be a wide selection of innovative fresh produce and ingredients that M&S customers love, indulgent dining options and foodie gifts just in time for Mother’s Day and Easter.

“What’s more, Sittingbourne residents will be able to collect their online orders from the store and pop into our café to enjoy a cup of fresh coffee and slice of cake.

“We’re now in the process of adding the final touches to our store and very much look forward to being part of the community.”

Once open, customers will also be able to take advantage of the store’s Click and Collect service, which will allow users to have M&S.com orders delivered to the store the next day free of charge.

The shop will be open from 8am-8pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am-4pm on Sunday.

Electronics specialist Maplin is to move into the former Paul Simon bed store, next door to the M&S Foodhall.

It revealed today that its first day of trading is due to be Saturday, May 13.