Asda’s new shop in Gillingham is not quite open but it has already started a price war – on fuel.

Its filling station has started trading ahead of the main shop, which greets its first customers on September 7 - the same day as the neighbouring University Technical College welcomes its first pupils.

At 108.7p for unleaded and 106.7p for diesel on Wednesday it has undercut the Esso Service Station in New Road, Chatham, which is regularly the cheapest.

Esso prices stood at 109.9 and 107.9p respectively.

It was also cheaper than others, including Tesco Gillingham Extra, Morrisons Walderslade and Sainsbury, Hempstead, according to price measure site www.carsfromkent.com

The new 73,000 sq ft Asda Gillingham Pier shop is on track for a September launch and labourers were still at work this week.

It being built as part of the new Chatham Waters development, which includes homes, offices and leisure space.

The shop, which will open 24 hours, will have George clothing, an optician and a create-your-own pizza counter.