A NEW B&M home store and garden centre is opening in Runcorn, creating 70 jobs.

The company is taking over the former Homebase at Bridge Retail Park, on the approach to the bridge.

This store closed in June with the loss of 35 jobs.

A B&M spokesman said: “A comprehensive internal and external refurbishment programme is currently being undertaken.”

The new B&M opens on Saturday, August 29.

Halton Council leader Cllr Rob Polhill said: “This is great news.

“I’m really pleased that B&M has chosen to locate here.

“The creation of 70 jobs is very welcome especially given the sad news that Homebase closed.

“I am sure this will be a good location for them and of great benefit to the area.”

It follows the announcement that B&M is opening a new warehouse in Manor Park, Runcorn in July, creating 250 jobs.

There are already two stores in Widnes.

B&M is one of the fastest growing retailers in the UK with 450 stores.

It plans to open 25 this year.