New Greggs looks set to open in Poole town centre

An application has been submitted for Greggs signage to be erected on the former Waterstones site in Falkland Square, just off Poole High Street.

Despite Waterstones wanting to remain in the town, it was previously reported by the Echo that the landlord had chosen to grant the new lease to Greggs and the bookstore subsequently ceased trading in February.

More than seven months since the first report, Greggs has now applied for a new shopfront and internal signage at the proposed site – located between Poundland and EE.

Empty unit, formerly occupied by Waterstones, proposed for new Greggs in Falkland Square, Poole (Image: Newsquest)

It is understood the existing Greggs store, located a stone’s throw away from the proposed site, would close in favour of the Waterstones space which is considerably larger.

• Read more: Waterstones to close with rumours Greggs could replace it

The lettings agent for the unit, Gerrard Matthews, previously said: “Greggs wanted more space and the [Waterstones] unit was on the market.”

Distance between existing Greggs branch and new proposed in Falkland Square, Poole (Image: Newsquest)

Despite the application, Greggs refused to confirm the move. A spokesperson said: “Greggs is always looking into new shop locations, while we are unable to confirm anything at the moment, we will be sure to share any information in due course.”

Last month, it was reported that other plans have been tabled by the owners of Wessex Gate Retail for Greggs to take on a site most recently occupied by Carphone Warehouse.

Three other existing Greggs in Poole are located on the Nuffield Industrial Estate, at the Esso Garage in Ringwood Road, Rossmore, and in Ashley Road, Parkstone.