SHOPPERS are set to be quids in yet again as another bargain store opens its doors this week – but opinion is divided on whether it is good news for the town.

Poundworld is due to start trading in the former home of Woolworths, in Regent Street,on Friday, joining the likes of Poundland and the 99p Store in the town centre.

The 14,000 sq ft store has already recruited 40 new workers, but shoppers were unsure whether they would be using the new addition.

Deborah Sells, 44, of Highworth, said: “The shops have to be filled with something, it’s better than having an empty centre, but more quality shops have gone.

“Swindon is going to look rough if the empty shops are not filled. It would be nice to have more quality shops. Many years back we had some lovely shops.”

Ann Rivers, 65, a receptionist, of Moredon, said: “We could do with a few more nicer shops. I don’t really use the pound shops. I would like a few of the designer shops and bigger department stores.”

The official opening of Poundworld will take place at 10am, and one shopper from Park South, said she would be one of the first in the queue.

“I am delighted. We love the pound shop, it will be great. We like shopping there and getting a bargain. I like the wordsearch books,” said the retired caterer.

With savings on brands such as Cadbury’s, Coca Cola and Johnson’s, the store offers more than 5,000 products for the price of £1, including household essentials, textiles, toiletries and groceries.

Gary Mealing, president of Swindon’s Chamber of Commerce, said the opening was great news.

“This just points out that Swindon town centre is a place where people choose to go and do their shopping,” he said. “I know the town centre gets maligned on ocassion but if you make a point of going there and doing shopping it is a great place.

“The figures in terms of footfall support the idea that people are choosing more and more to do their shopping in Swindon.

“That is good news for the town and probably a reflection of the current economy that people are having to hunt a bit more for bargains.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland, said: “This is a welcome development for the town centre and I am particularly pleased with the number of jobs being created. It is good news.”

The store will also be home to a Discount UK outlet, which offers more than 3,000 products with savings on home furnishings, electricals and branded toys.

Chris Edwards Junior, trading director at Poundworld and Discount UK, said: “We look forward to welcoming customers and we hope the exciting brand split will prove a bit hit with savvy shoppers in Swindon.”