Polhill's Coton Orchard garden centre in Cambridge is set to become the 19th Blue Diamond centre.

The centre was of particular interest to group managing director Alan Roper because he was born in the city and believes he can improve the business to cater for the upper classes.

"It's got a lot of potential," he said. "It's not going to be a huge destination centre because of planning but it could be a very nice medium-sized centre with an AB1 focus.

"I was born in Cambridge so I always wanted a centre there. My only regret is my parents aren't around to see it."

Plans for the centre include changes to the ranges, merchandising and shop layout. The local market is currently dominated by a large Scotsdales garden centre in the vicinity, but Mr Roper said that he aims for his centre to "compliment" this business rather than compete.

Plans are already underway for a 20th acquisition in the north of the country.