THE district's three Woolworths stores remain empty despite hopes one branch would soon re-open.

Rumours had grown that Argos would be moving in to the store in Loughton High Road, but the company told the Guardian, although it was aware of the outlet, it had no plans to move in.

The store has been bought by a private buyer, David Shternzis, who recently submitted a planning application to renovate the building with ground and second floor extensions.

Mr Shternzis's agent Andy Pound said his client had bought the property speculatively with a view to attracting a new tenant.

But Mr Shternzis' plans have now stalled after opposition to his renovation ideas and he has withdrawn his application.

Mr Pound said he expected a revised application would be made soon.

The district's former branches of Woolworths in the Broadway, Loughton and Manford Way, Chigwell also remain closed.