‘Opening soon’: Will Greggs welcome customers in Swaffham this weekend?

“Opening soon” are the words emblazoned in the window of a new bakery which has caused so much controversy in recent months.

However, reports had suggested that Swaffham’s new Greggs had been set to open today - so the delay is likely to cause even more confusion.

Proposals for the chain sparked huge opposition among locals, with more than 1,000 people signing a petition against the store.

Many fear the chain’s arrival will be catastrophic for Wellbread Bakers, a family-run business which has been part of the community for more than 40 years and is located just yards away.

However, others have suggested the impact will not be as big as feared.

While locals have awaited Breckland Council’s decision to approve or refuse the application with bated breath, the new shop was set to open this weekend despite not yet having planning permission - but did not appear to welcome customers today.

The Lynn News saw passers-by sneak a peak into the premises, where large signs depicting sausage rolls flash the words: “Coming soon”.

Will Greggs open in the coming days? We will have to wait and see.

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