Nearly seven years after the idea was scrapped a Thai restaurant has confirmed plans to open in Maidstone.

The Giggling Squid, which already operates from 38 venues - including in Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells - hopes to open on Earl Street in the latter stages of 2021.

It had been due to open in June 2015 but, instead, they sold the site to ASK.

But the Italian eatery announced it had closed for good amid the coronavirus crisis last September, leaving the building vacant.

Fellow food chains Pizza Express - now The Green Room - Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Pizza Hut have all closed in the County Town recently.

But a Giggling Squid spokesman insists “business is strong."

They said: “We’ve had the lease for a while but various factors meant it wasn’t the right time for us to open the site as a Giggling Squid.

“We’re pleased that, despite the pandemic, the business is strong and opening in Maidstone falls into our ambitious growth plans.

“We’re excited to finally enter the community and welcome locals.”

Giggling Squid co-founder, Andy Laurillard, who works alongside co-founder and wife Pranee Laurillard, said: “Thai mealtimes are energetic, informal, adventurous and where food is celebrated. It’s relaxed and there’s no standing on ceremony.

“We simply want people to have a great time over something tasty.

“Every Giggling Squid has its own personal touch, and this restaurant is no different.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone.”

Giggling Squid did warn, while the plan is to open later this year, it may end up opening in 2022.

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