A SITE earmarked for a new library in Palmers Green will reopen as a new supermarket chain in January.

The old Marks and Spencers, in Green Lanes, has been sitting empty for the past 18 months because of plans to move the current library, in Broomfield Lane, to the centre of town and create a flagship community resource.

But the vision of the previous Conservative administration has been buried after Waitrose revealed earlier this month they had taken over the 25-year lease and will open a store on January 27.

Enfield Council has spent up to £82,000 in rent over the last year-and-a-half on the empty building and has welcomed the chain buying them out.

Council leader Doug Taylor said: "We have been in discussions with Waitrose concerning the Palmers Green site, which could have been a white elephant.

"Thankfully, Waitrose came in and their presence will be a massive boost for jobs and business in the borough and shows Enfield’s economy is alive and kicking."

Up to 70 jobs will be created and 60 more at a second new branch to open at the former site of Budgens, in Windmill Hill.

Jon Arnold, head of convenience at Waitrose, said: "It is always sad to see vacant retail units.

"This is a great opportunity to regenerate two vacant sites and deliver secure employment to local people and make a positive, long-term contribution in encouraging footfall to other local businesses."

Waitrose has pledged £12,000 a year to Enfield charities and projects through its Community Matters scheme.

In the past year, its main branch in Enfield Town has donated money to The Enfield Deaf Image Group, Alzheimer’s Society and local primary schools.