A NEW Wilko store could open at Middlebrook if the firm is granted planning permission.

The firm, formerly known as Wilkinsons, which sells a range of hardware, homeware and garden products, confirmed it hopes to open new premises, adding to its current shop in Deansgate in Bolton town centre.

The store would replace Carpetright, which is set to close.

Wilko is having to seek planning permission because planning regulations state that approval must be sought to sell certain types of goods on the retail park, including toys, books, food, drink and confectionery.

The regulations were originally planned as a way of offering protection for traders in Horwich and Bolton town centres, but a number of firms have had similar applications granted by Bolton Council's planning committee.

The application was debated at Horwich town council last week, where councillors voiced their approval.

The meeting heard that the new store could create 40 to 50 new full and part time jobs, the majority of which would go to local people.

Cllr Chris Root told the meeting: "The most important thing is that Middlebrook remains viable.

"There are a lot of people in Horwich who work there and if we start to restrict the type of businesses that work there then it could have a detrimental effect on Horwich."

A spokesman for Wilko has confirmed it is seeking planning permission for a possible new store but has said it is too early to confirm details of its plans.

He said: “We are not able to go into any further details at this time as so much depends on the detailed planning arrangements and our own internal planning process.

"We promise to reveal further information as soon as we can.

"We love serving our customers in Bolton and this would be an additional Wilko to our already successful Bolton store.”