FAST food giants Taco Bell have confirmed that they are opening a branch in Newport.

Just hours after remaining tight-lipped over their plans for a new store in Wales, a spokeswoman for the restaurant and takeaway chain has confirmed what was fast turning into Newport’s worst-kept secret – that Taco Bell will soon set up shop in the city.

While they stopped short a confirming the exact location, or the opening date of their first branch in Newport, a spokeswoman told the Argus: “I can confirm that we are due to open, but we cannot share any further details on dates at this time”.

But, despite the lack of official confirmation regarding the fast food store’s location, the Argus understands that it will occupy 6 John Frost Square – the retail space recently occupied by fashion store Select.

Earlier this month, Select closed, and work to hollow out the interior inside swiftly followed.

It comes as part of an earlier planning application submitted by Kingsway Investments LLP – owners of the Kingsway Shopping Centre, to change the use of the premises from a retailer to a 24-hour restaurant and takeaway.

While the opening date for Taco Bell in Newport is not yet known, it is likely to be a number of weeks away, at least, with plenty of work needed inside the premises before it can start serving tacos, burritos and similar menu options.

But, with work spotted inside the store today (Friday, November 19), plans appear to be trending in the right direction.

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Taco Bell in Newport: What we know so far

What’s more, Taco Bell are currently hiring in Newport, too.

Listed on recruitment website Indeed, Taco Bell and franchisee Campana Ltd – who also operate both Cardiff branches, are recruiting a restaurant general manager, shift leader/manager, assistant general manager, and team members for a location in Newport.

No location for this branch is given, though the postcode matches the Kingsway Shopping centre, and applicants “must be able to commute in and out of the city centre.”

Some jobs offer hourly rates up to £10, while management positions are said to have salaries of up to £30,000 a year.

Job perks are said to include discounted or free food.