THE company behind a new toy superstore in Barrow has announced when it will open.

Smyths is renovating the former Apollo Bingo in Hollywood Park and is recruiting ahead of opening to the public.

The chain has announced it is due to open the store on September 28.

Work to change the frontage of the shop following the closure of Apollo Bingo has been taking place.

The Mail: Work on the forthcoming Smyths Toys Superstore Work on the forthcoming Smyths Toys Superstore (Image: Newsquest)

Plans previously submitted described how the development would include alterations to the shopfront, rear door, a three-metre fenced compound and the construction of an internal mezzanine for storage, offices and staff facilities.

The new store will also mean the creation of 30 new jobs in the borough, ranging from retail assistants to management positions, with a further 15 temporary positions in the run-up to Christmas.

Recruitment for staff is taking place this month ahead of the opening.

Plans said the opening hours would be from 9am until 8pm between Monday and Saturday, staying open until 11pm between October and December each year to accommodate the Christmas demand.

Smyths Toys is Europe’s largest toy retailer, with more than 110 stories throughout the UK and Ireland, selling a range of products in the toys, baby, sports, outdoor and gaming categories.

The store will add to the existing toy retailers in Barrow, including Heaths Toymaster and The Entertainer in the town centre.

Fears were raised that the new superstore could reduce footfall in the town centre.

But at the planning meeting earlier this year the development was described as a 'retail destination that attracts visitors from a wide catchment, with links to trade benefits for the town centre'.

Planning consultant Christie Fraser told planning committee members: "Rather than competing with the town centre, Smyths has the potential to bring new businesses and spending into Barrow.

"The store will have a wide catchment and a significant proportion of its turnover is expected to come from beyond Barrow from towns like Dalton, Ulverston and further afield."