A new Poundland discount store is moving into a shopping precinct badly hit by the recession.

The chain is currently converting two empty shop units in the West End of Montague Street, Worthing.

Poundland said the new store, set to open in October, will create between 30 and 35 jobs.

The company refused to reveal how much it was investing but its arrival has delighted Town Centre manager Sharon Clarke.

She said: “For that area of town it is fantastic because Poundland is a real footfall driver.

“Given the amount of vacant premises there it's always been a difficult area even in good times.”

Poundland, which has more than 200 stores nationwide, attracting more than 1.5 million customers every week, is moving into units formerly occupied by Sussex Stationers and Rosebys.

The chain sells a wide range of goods, from clothing, household, stationary, toys and beauty products to food and drink, plus baby, gardening, DIY and pet accessories.

The West End of the pedestrian precinct, up to Crescent Road, has been hit hard by the economic downturn, with numerous businesses closing.

Surviving stores said the rows of empty units on both sides of the street acted as a “fire-break” which deterred shoppers.

A Poundland spokeswoman said:”The new Poundland store will offer Worthing shoppers amazing value on many top brands including Maxwell House coffee, Whitworths sugar, Colgate, Cadbury and Walkers, as well as everyday essential products.”

Poundland's arrival is the second major boost for the town centre in recent months.

H&M department store and a major national cafe chain are reported to be moving into Woolworths, Montague Street.

Nearby Bath Place is also undergoing a renaissance, with empty units being taken over by a fashion shop, Thai takeaway restaurant, nail salon, hairdressers and a gym.