A coffee chain which last month claimed it had no firm plans to open a branch in Wanstead has today said it will open a store in August.

Costa Coffee applied to install illuminated signs at a vacant shop in High Street formerly occupied by Enigma Hairdressers in March.

That followed a successful application by the shop's landlords in February to sell food and drink on the premises.

Despite the application for signs, Costa told the Guardian last month that it had no firm plans to open a store.

But since then, the company has advertised for a manager with employment agency Reed.

And today a spokeswoman said: "Costa is opening its doors in Wanstead High Street in early August 2013.

“The store will create 8 to 12 jobs for local people and we are very much looking forward to integrating ourselves with the local community."

Costa has recently opened a branch in George Lane, South Woodford, but some independent traders in Wanstead have voiced concerns about Costa opening when High Street already has a branch of Starbucks.

Dan Clapton, 44, of Reydon Avenue, recently set up his own business The Wanstead Tap selling locally brewed beers at farmer’s markets across east London.

He said: “I think it’s sad news but it is not a surprise.

“There is one business on the High Street which is moving out and I know rent on the shop is £25,000 a year.

“When you add rates onto that you are looking at £30,000. Sadly the only businesses who can afford that sort of rent are chains.

“Some people might say ‘well, better Costa than a bookies’ but having any chain is bad news.

“I think a lot of people will choose not to use Costa. Many of us make a real effort to do our best to support local businesses.”

When the landlords applied for permission to change the shop’s use, Cllr Paul Canal of Bridge ward voted against the application.

He said: “I certainly don’t want Wanstead High Street to become another identikit high street.

“I hope Costa Coffee are the last national chain we will see opening premises here.”

Wanstead Society chairman Geoff Horsnell has objected to Costa’s plans to install illuminated signs  on the grounds that they are inappropriate for a conservation area.

He said:” I’m disappointed but not surprised that they have confirmed they are coming.

“There are enough coffee shops on the high street already, but it’s difficult to know how we can stop it now.”