SHOPPERS queued up for the opening of the new, supersized Next, at Mayflower retail park, Basildon, yesterday.

Builders spent months revamping the 27,000 sq ft space, which was previously home to electrical giant Currys.

The superstore, which has created 50 jobs, has replaced a much smaller Next, just a few doors away.

It specialises in homeware, but also has children’s clothes, and shoe departments for men and women.

The store also has a Starbucks coffee shop.

Sam Smith, store manager, said customers would no longer have to travel to Bluewater or Lakeside to visit a Next Home.

Speaking at the launch, she added: “All the staff, including the support teams have been fantastic – everyone has worked so hard.

“Our customers are going to be shocked by the change and scope of the store.”

Shoppers faced waits of up to 30 minutes to find a parking space at the retail park, because Next was so inundated with eager customers.

Kerry Sowden, 26, from Basildon, said: “Parking’s been an absolute nightmare. The retail park is never normally this busy during the week.

“I think people have been able to see the building work going on for a long time now and were just really keen to get inside and see.

“Next Home is really popular, so I think the store will do really well and bring a bit of variety to the retail park.”

Mary West, 63, from Wickford added: “Next is a great name to have at the retail park.

“We were impressed. It was nice and spacious inside with lots of room for buggies.

“The cafe was really good too.”