CONSTRUCTION work on a new Primark store is finished, with final touches expected to be completed by early August.

The building - the former Lancaster indoor market - has now officially been handed over to the retailer.

It means after several delays, it remains on track to open in the Autumn of this year.

An Autumn opening date had already been mooted, but today's update is the first time it's been officially announced by the developer and the retailer.

Chris Beckerman, Managing Director of Roubaix Group - the owner of Marketgate Shopping Centre, said: “We are delighted to have completed construction work on the new Primark store. 

"The opening of Primark is a key milestone in our investment and improvement plans at Marketgate. 

"Our focus has always been on improving the centre so that it can attract and retain a vibrant mix of retailers and facilities, with big brands like the new Primark alongside independent shops.

“I’d like to thank shoppers at Marketgate and all of our neighbours for their patience and understanding while we have been doing this vital work.”

Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking’s real estate team provided funding to Roubaix Group to help deliver the investment and improvement plans.

Alan Brennan, Relationship Director, Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking’s real estate team said: “Marketgate is an important part of the city’s retail offering that, with the help of our funding, Roubaix Group is strengthening through new investment. 

"The arrival of Primark is testament to its ability to draw major brands to Lancaster.”