Whitehall unveils new plans

EXCITING proposed re-development plans were revealed this month for the future of Whitehall Garden Centre, which could lead to a £15million building project that could see the centre more than double in size.

The proposed plans are on show in the restaurant throughout July, with comments welcomed from local residents, customers and parish and district councillors. It is hoped that a new planning application will be submitted in September, following any changes decided from the consultation.

Managing director Peter Self who runs Whitehall with his wife Claire and daughters Charlotte and Maddy.

Peter said, “We’re really excited about this project and are looking forward to hearing what people think.

“We’ve been thinking for a while about how we can develop the business, and this will hopefully make the garden centre fit for purpose for at least another 25 years.

“Footfall has been increasing every year and we expect that to continue, especially considering the amount of residential development in Wiltshire.

“An important part of being a destination garden centre is creating a diverse attraction that will keep visitors coming all year round.”

The proposed plans show that the biggest change will be an increase in indoor space. Most of the current main building will be converted into a restaurant, and there will be large areas dedicated to furniture, gifts, seasonal displays, and a farm shop.

The expansion of the centre would see a huge increase in the workforce – Whitehall are expecting at least another 150 jobs to be created for local people.

Development plans were made in 2008, and were renewed in 2012.

Peter continued, “The proposed new buildings have been designed to fit in with the area. They will be built in a ‘tithe barn’ style so they are in keeping with the appearance of Lacock. My family and I live in the village and it’s important to us that the local community is behind this.

“I’ve always had an ambition of Whitehall being self-sufficient. The new proposed re development will include LED lighting, solar panels, and facilities for rainwater harvesting, and we’re hoping to make it as sustainable as possible.

“We’re aiming to submit a planning application in September, and I expect building, realistically, to take three to five years.

“I think Whitehall has grown so well since it started in 1970 because of our family’s hard work, and because we’re constantly being innovative. We’re always changing to meet our customers’ needs, and staying one step ahead of the game to offer our customers new things.

“We hope the new proposed re-developments will make Whitehall a unique customer and tourist attraction for years to come.”

Whitehall Farm has been in the Self family since the 19th Century, and the garden centre has been operating for over 40 years.

To see their full plans visit www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk.

Pictured: Claire and Peter Self show the plans on display boards in the restaurant.