Costa coffee opening to Hockley next month

Costa will be opening in Spa Road, much to the delight of coffee lovers in the town who hope the shop will give it a much needed boost.

The coffee chain hopes to create up to ten jobs and will open at the site of the former Charlie Wongs takeaway.

Geoff Grove, 49, of Haycroft Road, feels the shop will liven up the town and entice more people to the area.

He said: “A coffee shop is good for the town as it encourages people to go to it.

“I think at the moment the high street is dead. There are two funeral directors and a couple of charity shops, there’s nothing really to pull you there.

“Costa could be a social thing. It’s in line with what’s happening in Rayleigh High Street, you are creating jobs in a different sector.”

Kerry Parkin, head of communications at Costa, confirmed the store’s arrival.

He said: "The store will be run by one of our franchise partners, a local businessperson to the area, who will integrate the new store within the community, get involved with local events, offer the store as a meeting place for clubs and help with community fundraising.”

Claire Arkwright, 38, of Harrow Gardens, Hawkwell, is thrilled by the news.

She said: “I can imagine it'll be quite popular, with the school and sixth formers plus all the 'yummy mummies' and such like.

“I'll definitely go there, I love Costa. I can't imagine it'll please the existing cafes in the village though.”

Rebecca Whitebread, 30, of Cedar Walk, Canewdon, takes her child into Hockley for childcare and is happy she now has somewhere to do for a coffee and cake.

She said: “I think it’s a really good thing. There are lots of cafes in Hockley but I wouldn’t go there just for a cup of coffee and a cake.

“They are lovely cafes and Jon Boys does a good breakfast but nowhere does good cake.

“I really like Costa. I think its good value for money and a nice place to meet with friends.”

Anyone interested in working at the branch is asked to email Costa franchise operations manager Delroy Daniels on delroy@scoffs-group.co.uk

NEWS of Costa’s arrival proved controversial on social media, with some residents arguing there are already too many takeaways.

“I think it's terrible I think it should either be a hairdressers or another takeaway.” Ray Rice

“Yes great news love costa better then another pizza place or funeral directors.” Julie Pritchard

“Getting a bit fed up with places you can get food and drink in Hockley! And I don't drink coffee and their tea is disgusting!“ Lisa Evans

“That's a shame, a little independent coffee shop would have been better.” John Rawson

“Best news! Excellent! I'll never need to go to Rayleigh at all.” Sarah James