A HUGE Homebase in Southend has finally closed its doors - and another Lidl could soon be taking over at the site.

The store in London Road retail park finally shut, following a rollercoaster journey of closures and re-openings.

In August last year it was revealed that the DIY giant would close 42 of their stores, including this Southend store.

However, after negotiations, the store underwent a refit and was reopened in January.

But it was then decided the shop was too large for its current use, resulting in planning proposals to split the site in two, with half remaining in the hands of Homebase owners and the other half becoming a new Lidl.

It’s believed a new Lidl would create 45 jobs if, of course, plans go-ahead.

A spokesperson from Lidl said: “We are pleased to confirm that we’re extremely close to finalising contracts for a new Lidl store on London Road in Southend.

“We look forward to providing more detail in the coming weeks.”

Councillor Andy Wilkins, said: “Another shop has now unfortunately bitten the dust in an era that continues to be dominated by internet sales.

“Whilst it’s a shame to have seen Homebase depart, it offers an upcoming business a chance to take over the land and make something of it.

“Fingers crossed it’s not too long before another shop takes over the premises. My thoughts go to those who’ve lost their jobs this week.”

Councillor Kevin Robinson, cabinet member for Business, Culture and Tourism, said: “This is a disappointing loss to the community, it’s the nearest DIY shop to me and quite a lot of other residents.

“I use it and the other shops in the retail park often, although it has opened and closed a lot in the past.

“My thoughts are with those who have lost their jobs.”

Dan Love commented on the Echo Facebook page: “I feel sorry for the staff being made redundant there but the problem is the shop was far too expensive for traders to use.

“With its competitors doing same day delivery for emergency items it simply got left behind.”

A spokesperson from Homebase, said: “We can confirm that our store on London Road, Southend, closed on Monday.

“The unit will now be handed back to the landlord on September 30.

“As a result we cannot comment any further about future plans for the site.”