Work has started on transforming a vacant unit in a town centre.

The former Dorothy Perkins and Burton in Maidstone is set to become a hair and beauty shop.

Both closed in 2021 after online fashion retailer Boohoo completed a deal to buy them and the Wallis brand.

The building previously occupied by the two retailers can be found along Week Street between Greggs and Specsavers.

A planning application submitted in November was approved by Maidstone council on Thursday (January 11).

Rimzi Hair and Beauty is now set to move into the empty building.

It offers a wide range of haircare and beauty products – including wigs, hair extensions and fashion accessories.

The retail chain already has branches in Shepherds Bush, Chatham and Dartford.

They proposed a brand-new white shopfront, the installation of an illuminated sign, as well as new floor finishes, decorations, fittings and fixtures inside.

A steel roller shutter was also added to the plans for extra security.

This week, construction workers could be seen dismantling the old frontage and replacing it with a newer one.

The inside of the store looks to have been completed gutted, with only the old signs remaining.

An opening date is yet to be confirmed.

Rimzi Hair and Beauty has been contacted for a comment.