SAUSAGE roll lovers can rejoice after bakery chain Greggs confirmed when it will open its newest branch in Colchester.

The opening of the firm's sixth location in the city has been long awaited, but the company has now confirmed there isn't much longer to go before it opens its new drive-thru store at the Northern Gateway Leisure Park.

A spokesman for the chain said: “Greggs is due to open a new shop in Colchester’s Northern Gateway this weekend. We can share further information over the next few days.”

Work started on the store, which sits next to fast food chain Wendy's, earlier this year.

Gazette: Under construction - the new Greggs branch pictured in MayUnder construction - the new Greggs branch pictured in May (Image: Newsquest)

Greggs' branding has been installed at the site in the last week as bosses prepare to open its doors to sausage roll and steak bake fans.

The Northern Gateway location adds to an extensive portfolio of Greggs branches in the city, including two city centre bakeries, in Long Wyre Street and Culver Street West, and two locations in Stanway, at Stane Park and in Peartree Road.

The High Street branch of Greggs closed earlier this year to make way for the new Culver Street West store which opened in June.

Gazette: Bakery - Greggs in Culver Street WestBakery - Greggs in Culver Street West (Image: Newsquest)

The completion of the Northern Gateway project has been delayed until next summer.

What will be at the Northern Gateway in Colchester?

Greggs will be in good company as the £70million development, which was due to open in the autumn but has been delayed because of construction delays, has attracted several big names.

Wendy's was the first brand to open at the leisure park, which is next to Colchester United's JobServe Community Stadium near junction 28 of the A12, in July.

Gazette: Fast-food - Wendy's was the first brand to open its doors at the Northern Gateway Leisure ParkFast-food - Wendy's was the first brand to open its doors at the Northern Gateway Leisure Park (Image: Newsquest)

A huge Travelodge hotel is under construction and is expected to be open by Christmas.

Cineworld is also opening a cinema at the site, with several restaurants signing up to take on units too.

Mexican restaurant El Guaca, which was previously based in High Street, and buffet chain Nines are among the restaurants set to open.