DISCOUNT retailer Poundland is making final preparations before opening a new store in Colne which will create 20 jobs.

Poundland will open on Saturday, March 14 at 8.30am and will be the firm’s first store in Pendle.

It will be located at the Boundary Retail Park which is also home to Next, Argos and Asda.

This will be the fifth Poundland to open in East Lancashire with existing stores in Broadway in Accrington, Market Walk in Chorley and two in Burnley at Charter Walk and Princes Way retail park.

And company bosses are more than happy to be extending its portfolio in the east of the county.

Poundland’s trading director, Richard Lancaster, said he was delighted to be bringing £1 deals to East Lancashire.

He said: “We are delighted to bring our unique proposition to Colne, creating 20 new jobs for the area. Poundland offers value on top branded products to more than five million customers every week for just £1 and we look forward to opening our doors.

“In addition, we will have plenty of offers available, including three for £1 deals, bringing Colne shoppers even more value for their pound.”

Councillor Joe Cooney, the leader of Pendle Council, said it was always pleasing to see new retailers investing in the area.

He said: “There’s been major changes in the way people shop and the discount and bargain retailers are rapidly expanding.

“I think there’s been a change in perception on the bargain stores and supermarkets in recent years, they are not seen as selling inferior goods.

“They obviously see Colne as a great place to invest and do business in and the creation of jobs is very welcome.”

Since opening its first store 25 years ago, Poundland now has around 575 stores nationwide.

Poundland stock more than 1,000 top brands including Cadbury’s, Heinz and Coca-Cola and around 3,000 essentials including household products and beauty items.