Rumours about a well-known book retailer opening up in Harpenden are ‘well founded’, according to the managing director of the company concerned.

There have been rumours circulating that a Waterstones could be opening up on Harpenden High Street in a vacant premises opposite Sainsbury’s.

An opening has not yet been confirmed but James Daunt, managing director at Waterstones, said: “The rumours are well founded. We have not quite signed up on a shop, however, and so a rumour it still remains.

“The minute we have signed, we will let you know. We hope this will be within the next week or so.”