AN UPDATE has been provided on the future opening of a long-awaited supermarket in Largs after residents raised concerns over the protracted project.

Marks and Spencer has confirmed that its new food hall in Main Street is currently scheduled to open around autumn 2025 as part of its announcement that £30 million is being invested to open five new and expanded stores across the UK.

The shop, which is expected to create 50 jobs upon completion, was originally due to welcome its first customers last summer, though the retail giant later revised that date to December 2023.

The launch was pushed back again to three different dates - spring 2024, the end of 2024 and spring 2025 - but officials have now revealed their new timeline after locals voiced their fears about the lack of progress at the site.

As previously reported, residents were hopeful when utility works took place in February this year to clear the site of the former Pearson's garage, but these were quickly dashed and the site has lain empty since.

READ MORE: Utility works begin on site of future M&S Foodhall in Largs

The site that the company hopes to open the food hall on is currently owned by London Metric, who agree on a construction programme for the space.

It has been highlighted that construction price inflation and contractor availability have been two issues that have slowed down progress with the store.

However, in May this year, M&S moved a small step closer after the company applied for a licence to sell alcohol at the site.

And within a matter of weeks the alcohol licence was granted by North Ayrshire Council after it was heard that the store was on track for opening.

READ NEXT: Progress with £5m M&S foodhall in Largs as alcohol licence approved

In a response provided to constituency MSP Kenneth Gibson, who questioned the progress of the development, Marks said that at this stage it has "limited involvement" in the project but added that they continue to engage with the development team.

A spokesperson said: "We understand your constituents’ interest and enthusiasm for the new M&S Food Hall in Largs, and we are working hard to progress the development.

“Thank you for making us aware of these rumours and the community’s concern regarding the opening of the store which is later than planned.

“It is unfortunate that it has been delayed so far.

“We have spoken with the developer/site owner, London Metric, and understand that they are working hard to overcome challenges to the delivery programme including construction price inflation and contractor availability.

“M&S has limited involvement in the development of the site at this stage. However, we continue to engage with the development team as we look forward to our role as end operator post-construction.  

“Our latest updates from London Metric have been positive and that a contractor should be appointed soon, which will then allow the development to commence in the spring.

“The build period is around eight months, so handover to M&S would be autumn 2025.

A spokesperson for Marks and Spencer told the News: “We will continue to keep you and the local community updated as and when we are able.”

“We share the enthusiasm in Largs about a new M&S and want to reassure people living in the area that we remain committed to bringing this much-anticipated store to the town.

“We are working closely with the developer and hope construction will begin soon.”