Wickes is set to open a major new store in south Warwickshire after plans to remodel a new industrial unit were signed off by the district council.

The DIY retailer has been given planning permission to remodel the recently completed 'unit A' at Spa Park, Tachbrook Road.

An application to Warwick District Council (WDC) said the 3,591 square metre unit was completed in February 2023, but has had no takers until Wickes decided to move in.

"WBS has a very long-standing requirement for a new full-line branch to serve the Warwick and Royal Leamington Spa catchment," the application said. 

"It is, in fact, the occupier's top locational priority in the UK making this a particularly significant acquisition for the business."

Plans show there will be a slight change of use for the unit, as well as a new entrance built and the car park reconfigured.

Wickes already has a base on Coten end in Warwick, which is predominantly a kitchen and bathroom showroom.

The new store will open at Tachbrook Road (image via planning application)

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The firm says it will stay here until at least 2027 (when its lease ends) alongside its new unit south of the town which is expected to stock the full Wickes range.

"In addition to improving the supply of building materials to the benefit of local residents and businesses in the surrounding area, the proposals will positively contribute to the local economy through the creation of up to 45 full and part time jobs and secure the long-term occupation of the unit," the application added.

WDC has signed off on the works at the unit, saying they are appropriate for the site.

"The application is for a specific end user that has very particular trading characteristics and the development would be controlled so that it could only be occupied in the manner that has been applied for," a council report said. 

"It is accepted that the proposal could be not be located within a town centre and therefore out of centre sites such as this one can be considered. 

"Furthermore, the proposal in this location would not result in any unacceptable impacts on the vitality of any nearby centres."

No opening date has been indicated for the new shop.

See the full application here.

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