TWO and a half years of waiting came to an end as a former Woolworths store finally returned to use.

Large queues formed in the morning sunshine outside Discount UK on Regent Street, Wrexham, on Friday as the building began operating for the first time since the town’s Woolworths branch closed in January, 2009.

There have been 40 new jobs created by the opening of the store and shoppers were delighted to see the large building back in use.

Pensioner Mary Miles, 84, was one of the first shoppers to enter the store.
She said: “I am very pleased.

“This has been a long time coming.

“It is very sad we have lost Woolworths and Boots across the road but it is good this store is in use again.”

A satisfied early customer was Ann Barton, 47.

She said: “It is a lovely shop, it has got everything I want.

“I’m pleased there is a shop back in use here and it stocks the things I want.”

Shoppers were entertained by a stiltwalker outside the store, which is Discount UK’s first in Wales.

Martyn Birks, Discount UK marketing director, said the size of the unit had been a factor in why they had moved into the store.

Although the shop is not going to be identical to Woolworths in the items it sells, Mr Birks said there will be comparisons.

He said: “We see ourselves as a vibrant, modern day Woolworths.

“It is good to see the people of Wrexham coming along to the opening and we are very confident of being here long-term.

“This store is in an ideal location in the heart of Wrexham.”
Mr Birks has said he anticipates helping to increase footfall in Wrexham town centre, which would benefit the whole area.

The store is very close to the former Boots premises, which has been empty since August, 2009.

Last week Isobel Watson, town centre manager, confirmed a temporary lease had been agreed for the site.