THE new Starbucks will have its doors open in time for Christmas — creating jobs for 18 people.

Your Worcester News reported on Thursday how the Seattle-based coffee chain was due to open a shop on the Cross in Worcester City Centre in the former Support the Arts unit.

Although only four months ago Starbucks denied any plans to open a shop in the city centre, the coffee shop is due to be opened in mid-November, creating 18 jobs.

Bobby Sidhu, managing director of 1 Oak Ltd who are opening the store, said: “Worcester is a great city and, as a local business we are excited to be bringing an international brand to the local community. We will be employing 18 people in store and we’ve already been overwhelmed by the number of applications we have received.”

Previously, people looking for a cup of their favourite blend from Starbucks had to travel as far as Weavers Wharf Retail Park, Kidderminster, Hopwood Service Station in Redditch or on Ashchurch Road in Tewkesbury, although there is a small outlet at Worcester University's Castle Street campus.

The news caused a stir among readers on our Facebook page, with many welcoming the shop's opening and others saying Worcester already has enough coffee shops.

Poppy Fish said: "We should be looking to enhance the unique history and quaint atmosphere of Worcester by encouraging smaller, independent coffee shops so we have something different to offer. Starbucks does nothing but outbid the rest of the city's services and monopolise the market, thus reducing our choice," while San Chez commented: "I'm all for Starbucks — brilliant customer service with a smile, clean and great coffee."

Paul Ware said: "Our cities are full of coffee and charity shops. Do we really need anymore?"