There has been a buzz in Queen's Hills this week as workmen have FINALLY been seen inside the Co-op store which is set to open early next year.  

People living in the Costessey estate have been waiting years for progress on the store, which is set to be the first shop in the estate.  

However, a spokesman for Co-op, speaking to this newspaper in August, said: “We always have ongoing reviews for potential Co-op sites to make sure they can provide a long-term, viable convenience store location that serves the local community and it is our intention to open this store in 2024.”   

Norwich Evening News: Gary Blundell is pleased that there is finally movement on the site Gary Blundell is pleased that there is finally movement on the site (Image: Gary Blundell)

And now those claims have been proven as workmen have been spotted preparing the store for its opening, which is rumoured to be at the end of January. 

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District councillor Gary Blundell said: “After years of anticipation and promises, the unfolding renovations at Queen's Hills Co-op are a long-awaited welcome surprise.” 

Gary said the store shows that there is finally progress and it will fulfil crucial community needs which have been apparent in the estate for many years.  

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He continued: “Queen's Hills residents always seem to have to wait years and years for any progress, and this store proves how long it takes for anything to move forward. 

Norwich Evening News: Co-op is set to open in a unit in Fieldfare Way in the estate Co-op is set to open in a unit in Fieldfare Way in the estate (Image: Newsquest)

“But finally another piece of the jigsaw looks to be nearing completion.  

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“It will be welcomed alongside the new Rumbles takeaway, which provides a great service and amazing food to our local community.” 

The store is in Fieldfare Way in a purpose-built unit which houses other businesses and has a car park.

It is expected to be very popular as the first of its kind in the estate with the next closest stores being at the Longwater retail park.