A POPULAR garden centre in Northwich could be flattened and replaced with a brand new one creating dozens of new jobs.

A planning application has been submitted to bulldoze Weaver Vale Garden Centre on Winnington Avenue, Northwich, and construct an entirely new centre in its place, complete with a larger restaurant, shop, warehouse, as well as covered outdoor display and sales areas.

The plans would more than double the existing workforce, securing 40 existing posts and creating an additional 47.

Documents submitted in support said the existing structures were ‘old and worn’ and no longer fit for purpose, citing a need for improved facilities due to the 'increased demands and expectations' of modern customers.

It said: "Customer expectations of retailers have changed dramatically over recent years. Whereas previously customers would accept simple standards, much improved facilities of extremely high standards are setting the pace and garden centres are expected to be clean, bright and professionally run from a high quality retail environment that customers can enjoy all year round."

It added: "The fact that the site has developed over time in a piecemeal fashion has also resulted in inefficiencies in the current layout. Works are required in order for the site to keep up with its competitors and meet the changing needs of today's garden centre customers."

A total of 361 parking spaces would be built, including 19 disabled spaces, 17 parent and child spaces and 42 electric vehicle charging points - including Tesla chargers. Cycle parking would be provided for 34 cycles.

The centre was bought by present owners Klondyke Strikes Garden Centres in 2006 but its history goes back longer. The centre currently has 42 schools registered with its Gardens for Schools scheme and runs monthly Grow Mini gardening sessions for children.

Planning documents said a larger restaurant would benefit community groups.  They said: "The increased restaurant seating area will enable local groups such as mother and baby groups, knit and natter groups as well as educational groups to meet at the site with tables reserved for them which it is difficult to do at present with a restricted seating area."

The plans can be viewed on the Cheshire West and Chester planning portal under the following reference number. 24/02288/FUL.