Signs have been spotted at the site of Popeyes new branch in Bishop Auckland as it prepares for its opening.

The fried chicken giant will make its way to Fieldon Bridge Retail and Leisure Park development soon.

Signs have recently gone up on fencing at the site advertising a free chicken sandwich, with a QR code directing customers to further details.

Plans for the new branch include 50 seats inside, outdoor seating, a drive-thru, kerb-side pick-up bays and a car park.

Neil Williamson, Popeyes’ chief operating officer and, said: “Following the success of our Metrocentre restaurant, we are thrilled to bring Popeyes to Bishop Auckland, marking our second venture in the North East.

“Our most recent openings have been some of the biggest to date, not just in the UK but for Popeyes globally, and we’re confident that our new drive-thru restaurant in Bishop Auckland will be just as popular.

“The brand has a real following in America, and I hope people will come along and find out what we’re about.

“I believe that our legendary menu and Southern hospitality will really win the hearts and tastebuds of the North East.”

Dominos, Burger King, and The Range are among the businesses also set to come to the retail park.

The fast food retailer unveiled its plan to expand in the UK on January 22 - aiming to create 2,000 jobs.

Most read:

Grab our digital subscription for £5 for 5 months and stay connected with local happenings.​ Click here.

New stores will also be coming to Exeter, Manchester, Glasgow, Swansea and Birmingham.

The Louisiana-based firm, which has 4,000 restaurants globally, first came to the UK in November 2021.

It now has 38 sites, employing 2,300 staff, with the Metrocentre venue being its fourth store, and first outside the South East.