EXCITEMENT is building as the finishing touches are being made for chemist chain Boots' move into the vacant former New Look store in Weymouth town centre.

As reported, Boots will be moving to a new two-storey home, just metres away from its current dual-fronted premises at 81-82 St Mary Street and 22-24 St Thomas Street.

The retail and healthcare giant has put up a sign in their current store informing customers that they will be closing on Tuesday, June 21 and moving into the bigger premises at 1-2 New Bond Street, which will be opening to the public on Wednesday, June 22. 

Deputy mayor and Melcombe Regis councillor Tia Roos said moving into the bigger, Grade II-listed site will mean a greater selection of products and services.

She said: "Over the years I have noticed businesses close, change and open.

"Overall, it’s always a delight to have business and I especially think we need to be supporting the small local businesses as much as possible.

"Boots, although commercial, is very much a needed service. The pharmacy has been very important to residents.

"I hope that a larger space will mean more products and services and hopefully in time the space of where Boots used to be will be filled with another business that we can all welcome."

New Look was forced to exit the branch in February this year after its former landlord ended the lease early. The women's fashion chain has since revealed plans to take over the former Monsoon branch, also in New Bond Street.

Jon Orrell, Melcombe Regis councillor, said: "I'm pleased to see Boots remaining in the town.

"High streets are changing and such national chains remain highly valued."

Boots has requested consent to display the signage at the branch until May 3, 2027.

The manager of Boots in Weymouth, Darren Steel, previously told the Echo a provisional date towards the end of June had been pencilled in for the move.

Boots were approached multiple times regarding job numbers, but the Echo did not receive a reply.