HUNTINGDON has been given another jobs boost with the news that Poundland is opening a branch in the town.

The budget store will be in St Germain Walk, next to Sainsbury’s, where the former Post Office and Millets were.

Work has started to combine the two units in to one bigger shop and it is due to open on Friday, May 3.

At least 20 jobs will be created and recruitment is due to start on Monday (April 15) via Jobcentre Plus.

Howard White of Churchmanor Estates, which owns the property, said: “We are delighted that Poundland is locating to Huntingdon.

“It has been looking for a store for some time and, with some creative building work, we were able to meet its needs in combining an empty shop with the former Post Office.

“We appreciate the difficulties of the current economic climate, however Huntingdon fares well in comparison to other similar towns and further investment in the town centre will build confidence for the future.”

BID Huntingdon manager, Katy Sismore, described Poundland’s arrival as a positive step for the development of Chequers Court. She added: “Huntingdon has a high rate of occupied shop units, with just 9 per cent empty compared to the national average of 14 per cent.

“Companies such as Poundland opening here is a strong sign of the town doing well.”

Other plans for the site include a multi-storey car park and redevelopment of the former Inland Revenue building.

Last week, the Hunts Post reported how 260 jobs had been saved at bed manufacturer Myer’s and up to 50 new ones are to be created. Meanwhile, design and manufacturing company Lola, now known as Forward Composites, announced plans for hiring between 40 and 50 people.