A WELL-KNOWN hardware chain is planning to take over Aberystwyth’s empty former B&Q store creating 35 new jobs, the Cambrian News can reveal.

Charlies, which has a shop in Cambrian Place has lodged a planning application with Ceredigion County Council to take over the site on the Parc y Llyn Retail Park.

Under the proposal, Charlies would keep its Aberystwyth town centre shop open, but would also operate the larger store in Llanbadarn Fawr to sell a wider range of goods.

Agents Quod, which made the application, said 35 full and part-time jobs would be created at the store and the plan would see a large shop premises occupied again.

Rebecca Lloyd, the managing director designate of Charlies Stores, said: “Charlies Stores is delighted to be extending our broad retail offer, subject to planning, to a larger site in Aberystwyth.

“We have been looking for an opportunity to expand in the Aberystwyth region for a long time, and are hopeful that planning consent will be granted.

“We will also continue to trade from our much-loved town centre store. We would like to thank our staff and customers, as it is their support that allows us to grow.”

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