THE MUCH-anticipated opening of a new gift, stationery and book retailer in Ringwood has been delayed due to “unforeseen issues”.

Shoppers excited for the opening of The Works, which was due to open on Thursday, February 16, must wait until March after issues with the long-empty unit were identified.

The unit, the former McColl’s and Post Office site in Southampton Road, has been empty since August 2020 despite several attempts were made to reopen it as a town centre Post Office.

Salisbury Journal: Unit in Southampton Road, Ringwood, to become a The Works storeUnit in Southampton Road, Ringwood, to become a The Works store (Image: Newsquest)

With nearby branches in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and more than 520 stores nationwide, The Works is known for selling a range of books, art and craft materials, gifts, games, stationery, and home accessories.

Area manager Nick Harding told the Echo the opening had been pushed back due to “unforeseen issues with the unit which must be sorted”.

The Works in Ringwood will now open on Thursday, March 16, 2023.

The store will create around seven new jobs.

Nick previously said: “Ringwood is a great little town and I think we’re going to have what people are looking for. We’re very excited to get started.”