Bingley Garden centre could be set for huge expansion

Yorkshire Garden Centres have revealed ambitious plans to expand its centre in Harden, a development that will double its size and create 20 full-time jobs.

The expansion would include the opening of a new Grasshoppers indoor play centre, a facility that attracts hundreds of families to sister business Tong Garden Centre.

A public consultation on the expansion was held earlier this summer, and a planning application for the work has now been submitted to Bradford Council.

Garden centre's history

Bingley Garden Centre, between Harden and Wilsden, was previously known as Stephen H Smiths, and is one of several businesses in the Yorkshire Garden Centres brand.

Other garden centres include Tong, Tingley and Otley.

Although the garden centre is based within the Green Belt, the application argues that the expansion will be on previously developed land.

AN artist's impression of the expanded garden centre (Image: Brambles Construction Services)

What would the expansion bring?

The new extension to the garden centre will include the Grasshoppers play area as well as a linked outdoor play area that will be open in warmer weather.

The centre’s existing café will be re-located to the extension, with the existing café space used for plant sales.

The planning application says: “The proposed development would provide a new indoor children’s play facility, relocate the existing café into modern purpose-designed accommodation, create an outdoor play area, enhance the plant sales area and deliver associated landscaping, parking and infrastructure improvements.

“Bingley Garden Centre is a long-established commercial business occupying previously developed land within the Green Belt.

“The proposal represents a significant investment in the future of the site and is intended to support the long-term viability and resilience of the business.

"The diversification of the garden centre’s offer would reduce its exposure to seasonal trading conditions, attract a broader customer base and generate more consistent year-round activity.

“The proposed indoor play facility would provide a safe, high-quality and accessible leisure facility for families in Harden, Wilsden, Bingley and the surrounding communities.

“The scheme would deliver substantial economic benefits. It represents an investment of approximately £1.5 million, with the construction work intended to be undertaken by Yorkshire-based contractors.

“The site lies within the Green Belt. However, the proposal comprises a proportionate extension to a lawful building of permanent and substantial construction.

“The development would be concentrated predominantly on existing developed land and hardstanding.

"Existing woodland and the majority of trees would be retained, supplemented by 35 new trees, new hedgerows, shrub planting and the enhancement and long-term management of retained woodland.”

Why the garden centre wants to do this

Explaining the need for garden centres to diversify their offer, the application adds: “Historically, garden centres have attracted a predominantly older and retired customer base.

“However, consumer spending within this demographic typically reduces beyond the age of 70, while competition for the “grey pound” from the leisure, travel and hospitality sectors continues to increase.

“To remain commercially competitive and responsive to changing customer expectations, garden centres increasingly need to broaden their appeal and attract younger people and families.

“Indoor play facilities have consequently become an important component of the modern garden centre offer.

“They attract a wider audience, encourage longer visits and provide an additional reason to visit throughout the year, including during periods of poor weather when traditional garden centre trade may otherwise decline.”

A decision on the application is expected in December.