B&Q's store in Bolton could be reduced in size so that Aldi, Starbucks and another business can move into the site. The plans, submitted by French owner BNP Paribas, cover the large site off Kay Street.
The proposals would divide the DIY store into three units. A Starbucks drive-through could be built on the current 552-space car park, and the TradePoint entrance at B&Q would be demolished to make room for the new stores.
New Aldi and discount retailer planned
According to plans submitted to the council, one of the new units would be purpose-built for a new Aldi, allowing the supermarket to relocate from its 'outdated' Higher Bridge Street store. The other unit would be taken by a 'discount retailer'.
The changes would also reduce car parking spaces to 510.
Reduced footprint and job impact
B&Q will keep a trade entrance and its garden centre, but the overall footprint of the store will reduce from 12,796 sq m to 7,152 sq m.
No staff at the store are understood to be at risk. Jobs will be on offer at Starbucks, Aldi and the other store, and the development is expected to retain current B&Q jobs while creating more full-time and part-time roles for the area.
Planning papers describe the development as "a sustainable and positive evolution of an established commercial location within Bolton". They add that the subdivision "responds directly to current market needs, supporting the retention of the existing tenant while introducing new operators to diversify and strengthen the retail offer".
The documents also state that the proposal "makes efficient use of previously developed land", and that "the introduction of a drive thru café and improved parking arrangements will further enhance customer experience and accessibility".
