Shoppers said they are pleased with plans for a large Primark store in Southend.

It comes as the discount retailer confirmed plans to move into the former BHS store in Southend High Street.

The new store, which is due to open next year will be much bigger than its current premises, offering more jobs and a greater range for shoppers.

Frances Griffith said "This is great news - the current store is far too small. Hopefully there will be more variety in the new one as is the case in all the other bigger Primark's around the country."

Salvo Stone said: "It might revive that part of the high street because it always seems to be busy in The Royals .

"However, what will happen to the big space within The Royals is a question I would like to know the answer too?"

Doug Jamieson said: "It would be nice to have Primark's like they have up north with 3 and 4 sales floors."

Lin Browne, 66, from Southend said: “This is great news - the current store is too small.

“Hopefully there will be more variety in the new one as is the case in all the other bigger Primark’s around the country.”

The current store, in the Royals Shopping Centre, will close once the new store is completed.

A spokesman for Primark said: “Primark can confirm that its Southend store will be relocated to a site nearby in town at 36-44 High Street, Southend.

“The new store will offer more retail space with a broader product range and will feature a contemporary shop fit.

“Construction work began on Monday, February 11, and is expected to complete in summer 2020.

“Our current store will be open as usual until work is completed on the new store.

“All our colleagues at the current store will be transferred to the new store.”

The popular retailer guaranteed the current jobs but has not yet confirmed how many new position s will be created.

It is unclear what the move means for the Royals and bosses have so far declined to comment.

The BHS store closed during the summer of 2016 and offers floorspace similar in size to a football pitch offering the chain store greater options.