DIYWEEK.net

The Baghost branch of Nottcutts Garden Centres has joined forces with supermarket giant Waitrose to transform the existing site into a purpose-built single site comprising both Notcutts and Waitrose.
The new consolidated Notcutts will feature a sales area of around 25,000 sq ft and a restaurant, while Waitrose will take up around 21,000 sq ft and feature a cafe. The central customer entrance area will be shared, and the development will feature a dedicated service yard to the rear of the two stores.

Plans for the redevelopment are pending approval and consultation, with a planning application not due to be submitted to Surrey Heath District Council until Spring 2013. A public exhibition will display the blueprints, meanwhile, at Notcutts on February 8 and 9. Representatives from both retailers will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the plans.

Notcutts said the plans should "secure the long-term future of Notcutts in Bagshot by providing a modern, purpose-built garden store employing a similar number of people as at present," adding that the current centre was in need of "significant investment and modernisation."

Waitrose, which will create around 160 jobs within the new store, has pledged £12,000 and 250 staff hours every year to local charities as part of its community matters and partner volunteering initiatives.