A DIY giant is set to open its doors to a new store in Kendal on one of the busiest weekend of the years for home improvement enthusiasts, according to the developers behind the project.

David Williams, development director for Leeds-based developers Stainsby Grange Ltd, said the conversion of a derelict 19th Century stone building in Beezon Road should be completed in time for new owners Homebase to open its doors on August Bank Holiday a popular time for DIY enthusiasts to tackle projects at home.

He admitted that the £20 million project to convert the former tobacco warehouse into a unit for Homebase together with a smaller adjoining unit has been a complicated one. The terms of planning permission for the development included an archaeological recording programme and detailed impact survey.

A 116-space car park will adjoin the building, which has been seen as a welcome boost to Kendal's economy.

The Homebase store alone will bring at least 60 new jobs to the town.