A MAJOR city centre store left vacant since an upmarket supermarket exited more than two years ago is to be taken over by a discount retailer, it has been announced.

Waitrose closed its 18,000sq ft branch in The Gates shopping centre, Durham, in August 2008, with the loss of more than 100 jobs.

Now Wilkinson, which sells home furnishings, DIY and decorating goods and household items, is to move in, opening a 19,000sq ft store in March.

The firm will be recruiting staff next week but has not stated how many jobs will be created or what level of investment the project represents.

Inge Johnson, manager of The Gates, said: "This is a major store opening for the city and underpins the variety of our offering here at The Gates.

"Wilkinson is a major retailer which appeals to all ages and types of shoppers. The store will be a fantastic addition to The Gates, where we pride ourselves on a complete retail offering.

"We are delighted to add Wilkinson to the many attractions at the centre and look forward to the store opening at the end of March."

A Wilkinson spokesman said: "We’re delighted to be coming to Durham and look forward to getting involved with the local community.

"We’re committed to investing in the area and will be bringing a new, fresh and exciting retail proposition to the city."

The Northern Echo revealed Wilkinson was interested in taking over the former Waitrose site more than two years ago, in January 2009.

Recruitment events for the new Wilkinson store will be held in The Gates on February 4 and 5, from 10am to 4pm.