DIY giant B&Q is set to create up to 34 jobs at its new store in Arbroath.
The retailer has signed a 15-year lease at a rent of £252,000 per annum to take over the former Focus DIY outlet at Westway Retail Park on the western edge of town.
The unit which is set to open for business in early April has been empty for some months following the collapse of the Focus chain last spring.
The new tenant follows the arrival of Asda at Westway in November, a development that itself created dozens of jobs.
Councillor David Fairweather, an independent representing Arbroath West, said the establishment of such big-name retailers in Arbroath is good for the economy of the town as a whole.
He said: ”It was very unfortunate that Focus shut as it was very popular, but I always felt that with Asda there it would attract other big businesses into the town.
”The fact it is going to create 34 jobs is super, but it will also bring more people into the town and help build the economy.
”We have had years in the doldrums and now we are attracting these big players. It not only helps people that are looking for work but it also brings people from outside of Arbroath into the town. That not only boosts business at Westway but is also good for business in the town centre.”
A B&Q spokeswoman said the new store will open its doors on April 5.
She said: ”The site of the new B&Q Arbroath store has served the community for years, most recently as a Focus DIY. The new store will create up to 34 new job roles and offer customers a comprehensive range of homewares, gardening and DIY products.
”With the store opening just before Easter, customers will be able to kick-start their spring gardening projects with a new 12,000 sq ft gardening centre. We’re looking forward to being a part of the Arbroath local community.”