Major coffee chain Costa will set up shop by February, leaving some independent cafes worried for their future.

The chain will move into the former Stead & Simpson store in Weavers Court, Halstead, creating up to ten jobs.

Braintree Council granted permission on November 17.

Some independent cafes in the town are worried the new shop will kill off their trade.

Mayor David Hume said: “We welcome any new business to Halstead.

“I think it’s good that people in Halstead will have more choice available to them.”

See this week's Halstead Gazette for more reaction.