A major refit has started at Hempstead Valley ahead of a discount retailer’s long-awaited arrival.

Home Bargains is set to move into the former BHS shop at the Gillingham shopping centre.

Work to give the vacant unit and the mall entrance a makeover is now well underway.

The building work involves the installation of new entrance doors, dark grey canopies and public art, as well as landscaping improvements.

Bosses at the shopping centre expect the works to be completed by late July, followed by a full fit-out of the former BHS shop.

The arrival of Home Bargains was first revealed by Future Medway in 2023, and while an exact opening date is not yet known, the store is earmarked to launch this autumn.

Since BHS closed its Hempstead Valley store in 2016 the unit has changed hands several times.

It was occupied by fashion retailer M&Co between 2017 and 2020, and then became a temporary Sainsbury’s Home and Tu clothing store until 2021 while the supermarket underwent a refurbishment.

The latest opening will be Medway’s second Home Bargains branch, with the nearest store currently in Horsted Retail Park, Chatham.

A statement from Hempstead Valley said: “The former BHS unit is undergoing a stunning refurbishment to welcome a new tenant, marking another major milestone in the evolution of the centre.

“The latest investment reinforces our dedication to making Hempstead Valley a vibrant and dynamic destination for both shoppers and retailers.”

Founded in 1976, Home Bargains, which is part of the T J Morris Group, has over 500 stores across the UK.

The retail chain offers shoppers a wide range of homewares, health and beauty essentials, food and drink, garden items and pet supplies.

Home Bargains declined to provide a comment.