Developer Robert Hitchins Ltd has announced the arrival of the UK's largest independent builders' merchant MKM to Kingsway Park in Gloucester - and the completion of the Kingsway scheme.

Founded in Kingston-Upon-Hull in 1995, MKM is said to have expanded rapidly and now has more than 90 branches all over the UK, including one in Newent, Gloucestershire which opened in 2017.

The MKM Gloucester branch, built by Gloucester construction firm E G Carter, is due to open in November to both the public and trade customers seeking materials for landscaping, kitchens, bathrooms, timber, insulation, plumbing and heating.

Developer Robert Hitchins secured planning permission last year from Gloucester City Council for the new 20,000 sq ft, two-storey facility on the 1.6-acre site in Newhaven Road. The multi-million-pound development also includes a yard, loading area, landscaping and customer parking for 22 vehicles.

A planning application for MKM signage on the site has now been submitted to Gloucester City Council.

Michael Plimmer, senior development manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd, said: "It's great to be able to welcome our new tenant MKM to Kingsway. We are particularly pleased that they have chosen our development for their new Gloucester branch. The company represents another top brand which complements the existing line of occupiers and facilities at Kingsway."

The arrival of MKM marks the completion of the Kingsway Business Park which forms part of a major mixed-use scheme on the site of the former 340-acre RAF Quedgeley.

The original masterplan included 3,300 homes, a 40-acre employment site, community and leisure facilities, retail, sports area and primary school.

"It's a fitting way to finish off the Kingsway scheme, creating local jobs and boosting the local economy," added Mr Plimmer.

Other businesses situated on the retail park on Newhaven Road in Kingsway include ASDA, Lidl, B&M, PureGym and Greene King.

Alder King and Carter Baynes represented Robert Hitchins Ltd. Adept consultancy acted for MKM.