More big brands will have the confidence to come to Spalding now Costa Coffee is set to open in the former Burton Menswear store in Hall Place.
After Burton’s closed their doors on Saturday, news of Costa’s interest emerged – and it’s likely the shop employing 12 people will be up and running by the end of September.
Phil Scarlett, president of Spalding and District Area Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful – I think it’s exceptionally good news.
“Brand names bring other brand names essentially.
“It will be good for the town – a lot of people enjoy drinking Costa coffee – but from a business point of view it will give other big retailers the confidence to come into town.”
Applicants Acca Ltd have applied for planning consent to change the use of the building and a spokesman for the company’s agents said the shop will open five weeks from the date consent is issued, and the opening is anticipated to happen by the end of September.
The ground floor only will be used, but the spokesman was not certain whether the company will ask to have tables outside as many Costa Coffee outlets do.
Mr Scarlett said it can only be good for the town if the council allows Costa and other outlets to have tables outside.
Acca’s agents, Walsingham Planning, say a survey in April this year showed six per cent of units in Spalding town centre were vacant.
The agents say: “A Costa Coffee in this location would support the vitality and viability of Spalding and bring associated economic benefits through linked spending in the surrounding area.”