A RETAIL giant has announced it will be opening a new store and garden centre in Canvey next month.

Discount retailer B&M Bargains has announced its grand opening on Saturday, February 16, at 9am, creating 60 jobs.

The premises will be part of the Roscommon Way retail park.

A spokesman from B&M said: “We’re feeling really positive 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 through the door in a few weeks.”

B&M is a fast-growing discount retailer, operating from more than 600 high street and out-of-town stores across the UK.

The closest stores currently, are in Southend and Basildon, although neither have a garden centre.

The park, which is the size of around 12 football pitches, will employ more than 150 people across the store, Marks and Spencer, Sports Direct, and the drive-thru Costa Coffee.

Marks and Spencer already announced the opening of the foodhall.

This will take place on January 23 with 65 members of staff.

M&S Canvey will be giving away exclusive Golden Tickets to the first 200 customers through the doors.

Store Manager Claire Benson said: “My team and I are really excited about our new store in Canvey Island.

“We’ll be working hard to provide outstanding service for the community and the new Foodhall will offer all the everyday essentials, as well as seasonal inspiration and innovation.

“Cutting the ribbon and welcoming customers in for the first time will be a great moment for the team and I hope lots of local residents will pop down and join us.”