B&Q is hoping to relocate its Welwyn Garden City store, after plans for 151 homes in Swallowfields were pushed through by a planning inquiry.

The plans to turn the current building into three tower blocks, each up to five storeys tall, was pushed through by the planning inspector today (July 24).

The proposal, submitted by Thrive Homes, was refused by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council back in 2021, after residents objected to the plans and even launched a petition that received almost 2,500 signatures.

The decision now means that B&Q and fast food van Dom's Snacks are set evicted from the site.

The DIY retailer admitted it was disappointed with the decision, and although it is now proposing to close the store, a relocation is being explored.

The 151 homes would be built in Swallowfields.The 151 homes would be built in Swallowfields. (Image: Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council)

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"We are disappointed that our planning objection was overturned as we had hoped to continue serving the Welwyn Garden City community from our current location beyond October 2024," said Sean Heenan, Retail Director South for B&Q.

"Our fantastic team has been dedicated to helping the loyal Welwyn community improve their homes for several years. Despite this setback, it remains our ambition to maintain a presence within Welwyn Garden City and we are exploring all available options for relocation.

"In the meantime, we are in discussions with the landlord about a potential short-term lease extension while they prepare for development, and I would like to thank our colleagues for their ongoing hard work and commitment."

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council confirmed they will be offering their support to B&Q, with Cllr Rose Grewal, executive member for planning, saying: "Like many in our community, we are extremely disappointed with the Inspector's decision. We are reaching out to B&Q to offer our support during this concerning time."