A ‘BIGGER and better’ B&M store will open in Winsford within the next few years, as part of plans to transform the town centre. 

The new purpose-built store will occupy a 26,000 sq ft retail unit and an 8,800 sq ft garden centre in the location where Fountains Court sits.

The current store in Winsford Cross will relocate to the new site, which is expected to open in early 2024.

This follows feedback from regular shoppers that they wanted a bigger shop and even more products.

The store manager at B&M Winsford said: “We wanted a bigger and better store for our customers, giving them even more big, branded products.” 

“We hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store, we’re really excited to get the doors open and move to our exciting new location in Winsford.” 

Planning permission was given in May for Cheshire West and Chester Council to progress with plans to demolish Queen’s Parade and Fountains Court and the council has since been working with existing businesses, including some relocations.   

Plans include modern retail shops and restaurants, a drive-to/through coffee shop, better parking facilities and a new public square to accommodate a new home for the relocated war memorials. 

Work is expected to start on site later this summer and, once complete, it will have a distinctive parkland character by extending Winsford’s green spaces, its award-winning Town Park and natural assets into the town centre.

A leafy, new pedestrian boulevard will run north to south. 

Councillor Richard Beacham, cabinet member for inclusive growth, economy and regeneration, said: “The decision by B&M to invest in Winsford follows on from other large businesses such as mydentist and Caprinos opening up new stores recently. 

“There is excitement growing about the future of the town centre among the business community, as it redevelops and becomes a better leisure and retail destination with a whole new look.

“Residents can expect to see more food and retail businesses setting up shop in the town centre in the future.”

The redevelopment of the town centre will be undertaken in phases and details on future phases will be released later. 

The council secured £9.98 million from the Government’s Future High Street Fund and is also investing £11 million of council funding to pay for the scheme.