After news that an M&S foodhall will be coming to Hatfield, residents have been giving their take ahead of the store's opening.

The retailer is set to open in Unit 1a at Oldings Corner Retail Park in early 2025, and invest £3 million into the store.

Up to 70 new jobs are also expected to be created, with recruitment starting later this year.

Residents across Hatfield have been giving their take on the new store, with plenty excited to shop in the store.

"Simply brilliant. Thank you, Marks & Spencer," said one resident.

"Perfect, can’t wait. Will save driving to Stevenage or London Colney," another said.

Plenty were keen to show their love for M&S, with one saying: "This I'm totally down for, love M&S", while another said: "Everyone loves M&S food."

Here's what some residents had to say on the new store.Here's what some residents had to say on the new store. (Image: Canva)

Oldings Corner is already home to an Tesco Extra store, with residents highlighting a possible rivalry between the two stores.

"An M&S Food Hall next to Tesco? They are just seeing the opportunity to be next to the motorway for better logistic and next to a big competitor. It's a strategy, so they can keep their presence in Hertfordshire and people don't have to go to Stevenage," said one shopper.

"Well its opening next to Tesco which is a great idea because the prices are similar these days, but M&S quality is far superior to Tesco," another said.

Others weren't so sure, with a shopper saying: "I'll look at it as I go into Tesco."

"Never shop for food there. Looks lovely but too expensive. Will still be going to Aldi and Tesco," another commented

One resident raised issue with M&S decision to open in Hatfield, after making the decision to close their Howard Centre store in Welwyn Garden City back in April 2022.

"Then why close down the Welwyn Garden City one to now open in Hatfield a couple years later? A lot of older people done their shopping at Welwyn Garden City one as was convenient for them," they said.