A BIG-NAME coffee chain has officially opened its doors in Billericay and is already proving popular among the community.

Hundreds of residents have already stepped inside the Italian-inspired coffeehouse Caffè Nero in the High Street since its doors flew open.

For a few weeks, coffee-lovers have been hit with the smell of roasted beans wafting up their nostrils, the sound of steam squeaking as the liquid is brewed and, of course, indulging in the silky and creamy beverages.

Stuart Sullivan, Conservative councillor for Billericay East ward, said: “We are always pleased to see new businesses opening in the High Street, and we particularly welcome a well-known brand like Caffè Nero.

“It is a positive development for the town.”

With the new store pulling in customers, it is driving money for the borough’s economy.

Craig Rimmer, councillor responsible for economic stimulus and tourism, said: “Caffè Nero opening in the borough is great news for the local economy.

“It is a fantastic asset for Billericay.”

One Billericay resident took to Google to give her reaction to the new addition after visiting with her boyfriend.

She said: “[I am] very pleased with the drinks we purchased, especially the pistachio and salted caramel frappe crème.

“It was delicious, the prices were worth it, and the atmosphere and theming of the cafe was beautiful and very peaceful.

“I am planning to come to the cafe a lot more often.”

And another said it is a “lovely new store” and will be visiting again with a “rotate between Costa”.

Located in the High Street’s Squire House – a 1970s-styled three-storey-building – the premises replaced the Clintons Cards shop.

The largest unit of the site has been leased to the coffee chain, while the upper floors have turned form office space into residential apartments.

Before work started in June, the nearest branches of Caffè Nero were in Southend and Brentwood.