ONE of the best known food stores in the country has announced the opening date of its new branch in Hampshire.

The wait is nearly over for Eastleigh residents as M&S has revealed it will be opening its foodhall on Wednesday, August 16.

It will welcome customers for the first time at 10am with a glass of fizz and treats to enjoy as they browse the new store.

Situated on Coles Close off Twyford Road, the foodhall will be 16,000 square feet, with a mezzanine level, café and 45 car parking spaces, as well as 54 new recruits. The Eastleigh store is the only branch in Hampshire of the 36 recently announced to be opened across the country as part of a five-year store opening plan.

As previously reported, the build has caused controversy, with Eastleigh Borough Council refusing to clarify exactly how the £3.6m it borrowed to fund the development was being spent, and whether it was borrowed in compliance with M&S specifications.

Store manager Dylan Chandler said: “I’ve been speaking with the local community over the past few months and it’s great to hear how excited people are about M&S coming to Eastleigh.

“With just over one month to go, the team and I are making the final touches and can’t wait to reveal our extensive ranges and 50-seat café with outdoor seating.”

The store will also have a living wall made up of hundreds of different types of herbs and flowers.