Wickes has got its name on Westfield

THE former B&Q store in the Westfield area of Gorgie is to be turned into a Wickes DIY store after lying empty for four years.

Workers began dismantling the large warehouse premises at the weekend ahead of being relaunched by the chain.

Although the work is at an early stage, the new Wickes store is expected to bring jobs to the area.

The B&Q warehouse employed around 150 staff until it moved to Hermiston Gait in 2007.

Gorgie councillor Eric Milligan said it would provide opportunities for local residents looking to find work.

He said: “Any economy activity is to be welcomed at the present time. Wickes certainly appear to be a good company, which will be of benefit to the area and to those who live here.”

The Westfield site, which is located to the rear of Murrayfield Stadium, was at one stage earmarked for 130 new homes and a string of shops along Westfield Avenue.

Plans to build around 170 affordable homes close to the store on what would have been the first stage of the planned development are continuing.