CONSTRUCTION of the new Marks and Spencer foodhall at Heathfield - along with up to 45 jobs - is nearly complete as the store aims to open its doors at Easter.

It is understood that the shop which already exists in Ayr Town Centre will not be affected and the food and drink section will remain there too.

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) told the Advertiser there will be 35 to 45 customer assistant roles up for grabs when the store opens in March.

These posts will be advertised online and at the local job centre.

Speaking on behalf of the DWP, Lynn Hamill said: “Unemployment figures in the area have dropped significantly and we hope this will continue to be the case when the new M&S opens.”

New employment opportunities will also become available at Craig Tara in February and Turnberry will be looking for up to 350 staff from May onwards.