CONSTRUCTION work has begun to build new shops in Botley.

Workers have started building the structure that will eventually house a new Costa Coffee drive-thru.

The site was previously home to a BP petrol garage, which closed in September last year.

The coffee shop will occupy the south-eastern corner of the site, whilst a new M&S food hall is planned for the north western corner, replacing the existing Homebase.

The retailer had announced it was scaling back food hall openings but appears to be going ahead at Seacourt, although it has not confirmed this.

Four additional units, part of the second phase of the shopping centre’s redevelopment, still remain un-let.