Marks and Spencer has announced plans for a huge new flagship store in Harlow, bringing hundreds of jobs and a major retail boost to the town. The high street giant has agreed plans for a purpose-built 50,000 sq ft store that will offer a full range of food, clothing and home products.

The new site will be built on the driving training centre site on Edinburgh Way, forming part of wider efforts to revitalise the area. Originally, the retailer had explored opening only a food store in Harlow, but discussions with Harlow Council led to plans being expanded to include a full-line food and fashion store.

The two-storey building will also include a 380-space car park, direct bus links and improvements to the surrounding road layout.

The development is expected to create between 200 and 300 new jobs, which council leaders say will be a welcome boost for the local economy.

Unemployment in the market town has often been higher than the national average, meaning the new store could provide significant opportunities for job seekers in the area.

The project is still subject to planning approval, but if approved, the store could open as early as next year, following around two years of discussions between the council and the retailer.

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Dan Swords, leader of Harlow Council, said the announcement fulfilled a commitment to bring a full Marks & Spencer store back to the town.

"We promised the people of Harlow we would bring a full-line M&S back to our town and today we have delivered," he said.

"This week we signed an agreement for a new flagship, purpose-built Marks and Spencer food and fashion store for Harlow."

Stuart Machin, chief executive of Marks & Spencer, said the retailer was pleased to support the town's renewal.

"We are delighted to confirm we have signed an agreement on terms for a new state-of-the-art Marks and Spencer store in Harlow," he said.

"We look forward to creating 200 to 300 new jobs and a fantastic store bringing food and fashion to the area and supporting the council in its work to renew Harlow."