Work has finally started in Droitwich on the brand new Waitrose.

After years of planning, the store, which is being built on land previously occupied by Droitwich Market Hall, is beginning to take shape.

The new store is expected to open in summer 2005. It will have a wide range of fresh foods and groceries, an extensive wine department, customer toilets and baby changing facilities.

The branch will also have a patisserie and bakery department, a fish and meat counter, delicatessen, hot meal centre and self-scanners.

The first phase of works will be the diversion of sewers which cross the site and the relocation of a pumping station, which will involve installing pipe works under the service road to the rear of the High Street. All shops in Gurneys Lane and the High Street will remain open for business.

Market traders have now moved to a new location between Toyworld and the Talbot pub and the market hall will soon be demolished to make way for the new shop.

During the works, some sections of the car park to the east and west of Ricketts Lane will be closed for reconstruction and resurfacing. But there will be at least 150 car parking spaces at all times during the work.

Waitrose is aiming to complete all construction with the minimum of inconvenience to neighbours and the local community. Businesses and nearby residents will be kept informed about works through a series of newsletters.

Nigel Burton, director of development and services at Waitrose, said: "Waitrose is delighted to be opening a new branch in Droitwich. Our new store will enhance the quality and choice of shopping for local people and provide everything customers would expect from a state-of-the-art food shop."

Councillor Martin Jennings, Wychavon District Council's leader said: "The people of Droitwich Spa can now begin to see real evidence of Wychavon's commitment to the enhancement of the town centre and to bringing much-needed investment to the town."