The long-awaited return of a KFC which closed six months ago without explanation has been confirmed.

The chicken fast-food chain in Westwood Retail Park, Broadstairs, closed suddenly in September last year – though no reason was given for this.

Customers visiting the site near Westwood Cross could see its doors doors covered with posters informing them of the closure, and guiding them to the nearest store – a move which lasted longer than residents had anticipated.

However, regular sightings of staff inside the store cleaning have led to hopes the chicken shop would soon be making a return.

In a statement to KentOnline, a KFC spokesperson confirmed the site would reopen on Wednesday March 13.

Bosses at the franchise said: “The rumours are true. Our Broadstairs restaurant will be reopening this Wednesday.

“We can’t wait to be back at the fryers, serving our loyal fans in Kent our famously delicious fried chicken.”

Reaction to the news has been mixed, with some celebrating the return of their local fast-food branch but many others being critical of the fast-food retailer.

Mark Websper said: “Good news - it is far better than the Margate outlet.”

The freeholds for the Westwood Retail Park, Ramsgate and Margate KFCs had been due to be sold at auction last September but were pulled at the last minute.