RESIDENTS are divided on their opinions as Greggs prepares to open its doors in Halstead.

The new store will create 16 new jobs, as it replaces the old Lloyds Bank after its closure in October 2021.

The new High Street bakery will open tomorrow, Friday, January 27.

Shop manager Baylee Barnes said: “We can’t wait to welcome both Greggs fans and new customers to our brand-new shop.

“We’ve got an amazing range of tasty bakes, hot drinks, sweet treats and savouries available for takeaway or click and collect.”

Some residents have said they are excited at the popular bakery chain investing in Halstead

Amanda Fanning said: “Bringing jobs to the town and less empty shops is surely a good thing for Halstead.”

Kev Gower added: “It's a good sign that companies like Greggs feel that Halstead is now becoming a place that they can invest in.”

However, other residents were concerned about how it may affect popular town bakery Humes.

Kerry Thomas said: “I hope locals continue to support Humes - a lovely family business which has been established in Halstead for decades.”

Lisa Cook added: “We don’t need it when we have Humes which has served generations of families.”

James Putney said he was confident of both businesses succeeding.

He said: “They have completely different target markets.

“Greggs will be taking advantage of the early morning and late afternoon periods. Humes is closed at these times.

“Also, Greggs aren’t a bakers in the traditional sense whereby they don’t sell bread or rolls so there is no direct competition on that front.

“Both can and will thrive.”

The Halstead shop opens with a fresh new look and is open on Monday to Saturday from 7am to 5pm, and on Sunday from 8am to 4pm.