Another cut-price store to invest in Bognor

The expected arrival of Poundland will take the number of cut-price chain stores in the shopping area to three.

The fast-expanding company plans to move into the former Millets store at the northern end of the London Road precinct.

CCJ Properties has sought permission to extend the premises '“ suitable for five to seven employees '“ to make them more attractive to users.

Tim McDonnell, Poundland's retail operations director, said: "Poundland is constantly on the lookout for new opportunities to introduce its retail concept of amazing value at just 1 to new locations.

"Poundland is currently considering the acquisition of new stores to add to the 31 stores already opened this year.

"The stringent acquisition process ensures they are positioned in the right location and fit the customer profile."

Bognor Regis Chamber of Commerce chairman and president Nick Stuart-Nicolson said: "I was initially apprehensive about this, but I realise the arrival of Poundland will see another nationally-recognised business in the town filling a shop which could have stood empty for a lot longer.

"It is also good to have some new jobs created. The growth

of discount stores is a sign of the times.

"I think we have to accept high streets are changing and different businesses will flourish in economic periods like the current one and replace those we have traditionally associated with shopping centres."

Poundland has grown to more than 280 stores in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in 20 years.

Recent locations include Winchester and Canterbury as well as Chichester.

CCJ Properties wants to extend the Bognor shop's first floor at the rear to provide extra storage space.

An additional 188sq m will be provided to take the total internal area to 813sq m if Arun District Council's planning officers agree to the work.

It also wants to alter the shopfront and install a single set of double doors. It is likely to be September when the council decides the proposals.

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