SHOPPING outlet Molly’s Den is set to take over half of the controversial Emporium site in Christchurch.

However, the Echo can reveal the Bridge Street site is still awaiting planning permission after TWO years.

Molly’s Den, which operates a number of warehouses across the south will open at Christchurch Shopping Village, also known as Christchurch Emporium, at the end of April.

Then, later this summer, a new 12,000 square foot Molly’s Den will also open in Cobham Road, Ferndown.

Dean Souter, director of Molly’s Den, told the Daily Echo he’s also set to apply for a licence extension at his Bournemouth outlet.

“Everything is about expansion at the moment,” he said. “We just want to bring more customers to the area and create more employment - another 20 employees at Christchurch, plus another 10 at Ferndown.

“We also want to bring in new revenue streams for the traders - the more traders that we get on board, the better for everyone.We’ll be taking on half of the building - so it is going to be a totally separate Molly’s Den, alongside the Christchurch Shopping Village.”

Christchurch Emporium manager Tracy Hadfield confirmed Molly’s Den had struck a deal to rent space at their premises, the old Mostyn’s factory in Bridge Street,. Tracy said: “We’re looking forward to the future, we’re all very excited about this.”

Earlier this year, the Echo reported the Christchurch site still has no planning permission, despite opening two years previously. Christchurch Council development management manager Jane Lynch said: “The change of use application at The Christchurch Emporium remains undetermined, but our planning department continues to work with the applicant and their agent. Due to operational changes at the application site, since the application was made, we are now seeking clarification as to whether the current application is still valid.

“We appreciate that this application has taken longer than anticipated.”

Mr Souter said: “We are liaising with the local council to overcome any concerns, we are also renewing our live lease licence with the council at out Bournemouth warehouse as well.

“Our planners are working closely with all councils.”

Molly’s Den runs a string of vintage and antique emporiums across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire. They have retail and trade warehouses at Bournemouth, New Milton, Salisbury and a Mini-Molly’s Den in Winchester

The Molly’s Den opening weekend at Christchurch Shopping Village is set for April 29.