WORK on a new Tesco in Pitsea that is replacing a former Londis off-licence has begun and is set to open soon.

It comes as plans for the express store, in Felmores End, were initially submitted to Basildon Council on August 11 and were approved on October 2.

Now, construction workers have moved in and are in the process of fitting out the site with the distinctive blue, red and white branding, as well as installing a new bank machine.

It has also been revealed customers will be able to set foot inside the shop in early December.

The supermarket giant previously told the Echo that employees from the Londis store will be offered jobs at the new shop and a recruitment drive will also be launched.

A spokesman for Tesco said: “We’re excited to be opening a new Tesco Express store, in Felmores End, Basildon, and look forward to welcoming customers in early December. 

“Work has already begun on the store and will keep the local community updated on our plans as we get closer to opening.”