A new department store moving into Bexleyheath Broadway will create up to 100 new jobs.

Morleys will be moving into the former British Home Stores site in the shopping centre in April.

The unit has been empty since BHS collapsed in summer last year.

The former manager of BHS in Bexleyheath, Sophie Cassat, has been employed to manage the department store.

Sophie has worked in Bexleyheath for 39 years at various jobs.

Sophie said: “I was absolutely delighted to secure the position with Morleys. I’m really excited to get back into retail, and I’ve been overwhelmed by how welcome everyone at Morleys have made me feel.

“We already have a fantastic retail offer here in the town and it is wonderful news that this independent chain has chosen Bexleyheath to further its expansion across Greater London.”

Morleys has hired 90 per cent of its staff for the new Bexleyheath store.

Leader of the London Borough of Bexley, Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Morley’s to our fantastic Broadway Shopping Centre. The presence of such a renowned department store in the heart of our borough is real coup.

“Morley’s will enhance the great retail offer that the Centre already has as well as providing vital jobs for local people – including some previous BHS employees.”

The 50,000 sq ft department store will be the ninth Morleys in the country and will open next month.