The long-awaited opening of a discount store at a shopping centre is less than two weeks away.

Home Bargains will be welcoming shoppers at Hempstead Valley after taking over the former BHS store following the firm’s collapse nearly 10 years ago.

After announcing it was moving into the centre in November 2023, a major refit of the substantial unit’s ground floor has been carried out.

Paperwork has now been completed, and the new tenants have the keys and are preparing for the launch.

The outlet has been home to short-term lets, including M&Co between 2017 and 2020, Sainsbury’s during its refurbishment works between 2020 and 2021, and more recently to Christmas Time over the festive period.

Julie Rayner, representing the centre landlord, said: “We are very pleased to have Home Bargains here - and at a time when a lot of investment has gone into the shopping centre to improve the aesthetic.”

Meanwhile, The Perfume Shop has reopened at a larger and newly updated unit at the centre.

The retailer moved to a more spacious store near Boots and Home Bargains at the end of last month.

It features a stylish layout, digital screens, a personalised ribbon machine, and energy-efficient LED lighting, which management said was all part of its commitment to sustainability and customer service excellence.

Shoppers can also enjoy complimentary gift wrapping, expert fragrance consultations, and a recycling service where used perfume bottles can be exchanged for 15 percent off a future purchase.

Ms Rayner said: “We're very pleased with the aesthetics of the new store and look forward to seeing how customers respond.

“The Perfume Shop is a valued retailer at Hempstead Valley, and this move reflects their continued commitment to delivering quality and service."

Home Bargains will open at the centre on Saturday, November 15.