Gainsborough: KFC to open later this month

Building work has been ongoing on a KFC for Gainsborough since March last year and it was initially planned to be opened at the end of 2013 but it is now due to open later this month.

The restaurant is on the site of the former Magistrates’ Court, in Roseway off Church Street, which had been empty since the court closed in 2008.

The former court was erected in 1975, but since its closure started attracting anti-social behaviour and vandalism. It became known as ‘an eyesore’ among visitors and local residents.

Residents had to be reassured in June last year that the fast food restaurant would still open after building work came to a halt.

A spokesman for KFC said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our new Gainsborough restaurant in February 2014.”

“The restaurant will create approximately 40 career opportunities in the local community, and we look forward to welcoming residents into the store.”

Horsley’s furniture and carpet shop has been trading in Gainsborough for over 100 years, and has welcomed the development.

The fourth-generation family business has been operating on Church Street since 1902.

John Horsley said: “It is good for the town.”

“It’s tidied the eye sore up and will bring new life into the area.”

“It is an improvement on the old derelict magistrates court site.”

“It is going to regenerate this part of Church Street.”

“KFC is a national brand name coming to the town which can only be a good thing. I think it is a very good thing and I’m all for it.”

“It is a very positive step for the town centre.”

“The development is better than the old court site.”