THE boards are down at the site of H&M’s new flagship store in the town centre – and contractors working on the interior layout are expected to move in over the coming weeks.

The units in The Parade which once housed Primark and latterly Peacocks have been knocked together to create one super unit.

It has been just over one year since planning permission for the construction was granted by Swindon Borough Council and passers-by are finally getting their first glimpse of the interior.

A new floor to roof glass shopfront has brought the store in-line with existing units further down The Parade at Topshop, River Island and BHS.

David Rodger, The Parade’s portfolio manager for owners UK Commercial Property Trust (UKCPT), said: “It has been reconstructed and knocked through from two units into one.

“We have also extended the first floor level to increase the floor space.

“We have essentially rebuilt the store and put on a brand new glass shopfront.

“The project is on schedule and on budget too.”

Checks will now be undertaken over the coming days to ensure the building meets all the strict criteria needed before it is handed over to the retailer.