A new B&M store is set to open at the previous site of Argos in Titchfield.

Fareham Borough Council have agreed a deal with budget retail chain B&M for the company to move into the former Argos building in Titchfield.

The 40,239 square foot building, opposite Dunelm, has been vacant for the past 18 months since Argos moved out as part of a 'downsizing and integration strategy'.

The floor space in the building will allow B&M to include a large outdoor garden centre.

In regard to the new store opening, a spokesperson from B&M said: “We’re feeling extremely positive about our new B&M store coming to Fareham, and we hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store.

“We’re feeling extremely happy about the creation of more jobs for local people, and we hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store.

“We are all really excited to get the doors open and welcome our new customers.”

Councillors have said that work is underway to refurbish this site and it should be open to the public in time for Christmas shopping.

The council hope that the new store will help boost the local economy and create further employment opportunity for residents.

Executive Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Seán Woodward, said: “It is fantastic news that this vacant property is going to be leased to B&M.

“This store, the third B&M in Fareham, will provide a range of jobs for Fareham residents which will also further improve our local economy.

“I am sure that it will prove to be extremely popular, and we are very much hoping that it will be up and running in time for Christmas. 

“This is another example of the Council’s commercial property portfolio contributing to the local economy as well as providing an income to the Council that enables us to deliver excellent services for almost the lowest council tax.”