A NATIONAL coffee chain has launched a new branch in a former bank after the unit was given a £200,000 overhaul.

Costa Coffee was due to open in Leek this morning to create eight new jobs.

The launch marks the end of a drawn-out saga which saw hundreds protest over the firm's plans to set up shop in the town centre.

Franchise owner Jo Ingram had initially applied to open at premises occupied by Ponden Mill soft furnishings store in Derby Street in 2010.

The plans sparked a 536-signature petition from traders and residents who did not want to see a retail unit close in favour of a cafe.

But despite winning approval from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Mrs Ingram withdrew the plans and instead revealed a fresh scheme to take on the Market Place unit.

The unit had been empty since August 2010 but was previously a clothes shop and a branch of Lloyds TSB.

Mrs Ingram, who will run the shop with husband Jon, already has franchises in Buxton and Burnley, said she had received more than 100 applications for the eight positions.

The 50-year-old added: "Costa will add to the vitality and viability of Leek town centre."

The shop has seating for 50 people inside and 24 outside.

It has also won the approval of visitors and residents.

Rachel Harrison, aged 39, of Winkhill, said: "It's good to have a mixture of independent businesses and chains."

Elaine Shropshire, of Congleton, visits Leek a couple of times a month.

The 67-year-old said: "I am pleased a Costa has opened because I do like their coffee."

Geoff Channon, aged 58, of Leek, said: "There are already lots of places in Leek where you can have a coffee. It will be a welcome addition."

Richard Wilson, one-time chairman of the Save Our Leek group, said: "It's good news Leek is attracting national retailers to a town centre location. Although we have a lot of independent coffee shops, people like to have a choice."

Colleen Savage, owner of Cafe Clique, in Getliffes Yard, welcomed Costa's arrival.

She said: "I think it is good news and I don't think a little bit of gentle competition will do us any harm. We specialise in food and I don't see it as being detrimental to us."

The chain now boasts more than 1,170 stores in the UK. It also has about 440 shops across 28 other countries.

Costa will open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, 8.30am to 6pm on Saturdays and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

Ponden Mill remains trading but the unit it occupies is still up for lease.