Taco Bell confirmed as tenants at Haverhill building owned by West Suffolk Council - with opening date earmarked

Global restaurant chain Taco Bell has confirmed it has set its sights on bringing its Mexican food to Haverhill this summer, creating new jobs in the process.

The restaurant chain has confirmed it will take on the unit next to Cineworld in Ehringshausen Way and has now started fitting out the restaurant ready for its opening.

"We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Taco Bell in Haverhill.

“We are planning to open in late August and will provide an update once we have a confirmed opening date," said Ian Cranna, general manager of Taco Bell Europe.

“This direct investment in the UK demonstrates our confidence in the market and sets the stage for ongoing future growth opportunities, both company owned and with our valuable franchise partners."

With more than 7,500 restaurants worldwide, Taco Bell’s first Haverhill restaurant is part of its accelerated growth into international markets as the brand continues to expand across Europe and other key regions.

"At Taco Bell, we’re world famous for our unique and craveable menu, flavour explosion and bold experiences from innovative new items to iconic classics," said Chet Patel, chief marketing officer of Taco Bell UK & Europe.

"We’re excited to bring our unique brand culture and connect with the people of Haverhill."

The restaurant will serve the community seven days a week between the hours of 11am – 11pm and will bring up to 20 new jobs to Haverhill.

For West Suffolk Council, the lease agreement provides a new commercial tenant for the restaurant unit, supporting the local economy and wider plans for the town while also contributing income toward the costs of the day-to-day services that it provides to residents.

Cllr Diane Hind, cabinet member for resources at West Suffolk Council, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Taco Bell to Haverhill.

“This new restaurant - the first Taco Bell in West Suffolk aside from those on the airbases - will complement the existing mix of restaurants in Haverhill for residents and visitors to experience and enjoy.”

“It will serve the growing population not just in Haverhill, create a number of employment opportunities and we are very much looking forward to seeing Taco Bell open and welcoming their first customers.”

Income from the lease will also pay toward the delivery of services to residents across West Suffolk.

West Suffolk Council’s share of the Council Tax bill is about £200 a year for a band D household.

But that makes up less than a fifth of what it actually costs West Suffolk Council to deliver its services.

The remainder is made up of income such as from commercial property lettings, alongside investments, fees and charges.

Taco Bell is currently recruiting staff for the Haverhill restaurant.