Noisy builders have infuriated households near the site of a new supermarket.

Debs Poulter, chairman of Springfield Residents’ Association, said Waitrose had “completely disregarded” the wellbeing of residents living near its new Wimbledon store – which is set to open today.

She accused it of breaking promises not to carry out early morning and late night building work in a bid to get the Alexandra Road store opened ahead of schedule.

Branch manager Steve Clapp said: “First and foremost, we would like to apologise for any disruption caused during the building of our store.

“This was extremely regrettable and going forward I want to ensure Waitrose only plays a positive role in the community, not only in the service we provide for shoppers, but as a neighbour.”

Ms Poulter said complaints about the problem were first made last month, when promises were made to tackle it.

She said: “At that point Waitrose could have very easily realised it would not make the advance completion date of July 28 without breaching the permitted construction times.

“Instead, its contractors have continued to do whatever they must to ensure the store opens ahead of the original schedule and in line with the glossy Waitrose pamphlets we are all being bombarded with.”

Waitrose said 2,346 people had applied for 134 new jobs at the store, which was opened by Merton Council leader Stephen Alambritis on Thursday.

A spokesman said the supermarket would raise cash for local good causes including the Wimbledon Guild.

Coun Alambritis said: “I am very pleased to welcome this latest store to Merton making it a hat-trick of Waitrose outlets opening in the borough this year.”

Have you been to the new Waitrose? What do you think? Leave a comment below, call 020 8722 6333 or email: newsdesk@wimbledonguardian.co.uk.