The site of a former garden centre and supermarket is set to undergo a transformation.

Residential developer, Lifestory, is planning to create new a new retirement and housing scheme in the Cotswold village following the purchase of a huge plot of land from MidCounties Co-op.

The firm has acquired a 3.39-acre brownfield site on Station Road in Bourton which includes a range of existing buildings, including former Countrywide and Co-operative stores and a garage.

The sale was handled by real estate advisor Avison Young and saw a total of 33 bids.

Now, Lifestory is looking to gain planning permission in early 2023 for a development which will provide the area with “a new lease of life”.

Kathryn Lyddon, chief purchasing officer at Co-op, said: “We are pleased our non-trade site in Bourton-on-the-Water was so well received by the market, and that, subject to planning, it will be used to provide much needed homes in this beautiful and ever-popular area of the Cotswolds.

“We continue to review our portfolio to ensure it meets our strategic needs and provides value for the Society.”

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: 33 bids were submitted for the site33 bids were submitted for the site (Image: 33 bids were submitted for the site)

Joe Williams, associate director at Avison Young, added: “The Station Road site presented an attractive proposition to buyers, located in a very attractive area, with the potential to add value to the local community.

“There appears to be no slow-down in demand for quality homes, especially in the Cotswolds region.

“The regeneration of the site is set to bring new homes where they are very much needed.”