THE former Woolworths store in Taunton town centre is being taken over by a clothing retailer, it was confirmed this week.

After twice denying they were moving into the store in recent months, cut-price designer brand retailer TK Maxx finally confirmed the rumours that they are opening in Taunton.

The 15,000 square feet store is due to open in mid October and although the firm has said it will be recruiting locally, no information on the number jobs being created is available yet.

Lucy McGonigle, spokesperson for TK Maxx said: “We are delighted to be opening in Taunton and this new store makes us feel particularly proud.

“It’s TK Maxx like you’ve never seen it before with a cleaner, fresher look - although don’t expect to find waterfalls or marble floors - we’d rather pass on the savings to our customers.

“Why are not able to confirm store openings until the lease is signed.”

Taunton town centre manager Graham Love said: “This is good for the town.

“The former Woolworths store is a prominent frontage and now it’s been taken up, even at a time of economic downturn. It’ll add to the retail mix and complement the fashion businesses already trading successfully here.”