BURNLEY’S new KFC fast-food restaurant is to open in the autumn after being hit by delays caused by the quality of the soil at the site.

Work is under way at the new drive-thru restaurant, on the former Car Village site, in Trafalgar Street.

The store, which the fast-food giant said had been delayed due to an issue with ground conditions, will employ about 30 people.

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that DIY retailer Screwfix will next month open a branch in the former Enterprise premises next to the new KFC.

Coun Howard Baker, who represents the Trinity area which includes Trafalgar Street, welcomed the businesses. He said: “It’s good news, especially because there is going to be new jobs.

“It isn’t really a residential area, there are a few old folks’ homes behind McDonalds, but there is never any trouble.

"It’s a good area of town to start up businesses.

“Also, if you’re like me and you like KFC, you won’t have to go all the way to Duke Bar anymore.”

A spokesman for the franchisee that operates KFC in Burnley said: “We’re pleased to say that work has started, and the store will open in the autumn, creating about 30 jobs.

"We’d like to thank our fans for their patience, and look forward to welcoming them to our restaurant to try our great tasting chicken.”

A Screwfix spokesman said the new branch is expected to open at the end of next month, creating a new jobs.