MALDON’s new retail park is hoped to have all of its shops open by November, developers have said.

Construction work on the Blackwater Retail Park in Fullbridge is in its final stages, with developer Aquila stating tenants will be fitted out within three months.

The park, which began construction in October last year, will see shops including Next, Aldi, Sports Direct, Home Bargains and Costa Coffee.

John Parling, consultant for Aquila, said: “The shops in the retail park are all likely to be fitted out and open by the end of November.

“Construction work was scheduled to be completed in August, and then the shops have a period of time to be fitted out and get themselves ready for business.

“You have to allow some slipperage time in case there are any unforeseen delays, but I think all the businesses are confident they will be up and running by then.”

The last beam of construction was laid on the site in March this year. There had been previous fears that the park wouldn’t be opened until early next year, but it now appears it will meet its initial target.

Aquila were given an additional boost to their work two weeks ago after additional plans for a 60 bed Travelodge hotel for the site were approved by Maldon District Council.

The hotel will also include a ground floor café, though the company that will take up the location has not been revealed.

Mr Parling stated work on the hotel is expected to begin imminently.

He added: “We were pleased by the result from the council for the hotel. Plans are fully underway and it’s hoped construction can begin in October.

“The aim is for the hotel to be opened in September next year.”

The retail park is reported to represent a £20 million investment to the Maldon area from Aquila, and will bring around 200 jobs to the town.

The Travelodge is expected to bring in ten full time roles, with the café bringing in eight full time jobs.

A spokesman for Aldi said: “Work on our new store at the Blackwater Retail Park is progressing well and we look forward to opening on November 22.”