A St Albans chicken shop has made vital steps forward before its opening.

Nationwide chain Pepe's Piri Piri is opening a new franchise at 220 Hatfield Road, with work commencing recently. 

An advertising banner has been erected above the unit at 220 Hatfield Road.An advertising banner has been erected above the unit at 220 Hatfield Road. (Image: Huw Richards) The unit formerly housed long-standing Golding's Tailors, which moved its business to St Stephens after 61 years of work in the city.

As part of the new makeover, plans have been submitted on behalf of the shop for the installation of an externally illuminated fascia sign and projecting sign.

The proposed plans for the new shopfront.The proposed plans for the new shopfront. (Image: Nasa Design Studio Ltd) The proposed plans for the new shopfront.The proposed plans for the new shopfront. (Image: Nasa Design Studio Ltd) The application, made by agent Nasa Design Studio Ltd, includes a new shopfront with the classic Pepe's Piri Piri advertising alongside a circular sign with the chicken logo illuminated.

Text will also be added to the sign saying: "The Home Of Fresh Flame Grilled Chicken."

Planning is under public consultation as is open for comment until December 10. To view the full proposal go to the district council's planning portal and search 5/2024/1835.

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Currently, a sign printed above the unit states "OPENING SOON!" and "NOW HIRING" requesting applicants to send CVs to stalbans.hatfieldroad@pepestores.co.uk.

The chicken shop was still unable to confirm a specific opening date, but a spokesperson said that it would "before the end of this year" with work "already starting".