Home Bargains to rescue Scots Homebase store as DIY chain shut dozens of shops

HOME Bargains has swooped in to save a Scots Homebase store after the DIY retailer shut dozens of shops.

Homebase plunged into administration in November with 119 of its stores across the UK under threat of closure, including seven in Scotland.

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It later emerged that the owner of The Range had rescued 70 stores across the UK through a pre-pack administration deal.

But 49 stores and 2,000 jobs were left hanging in the balance.

However, the owners of budget chain Home Bargains have now lodged a planning application with Argyll and Bute Council to save the Homebase Oban shop.

As reported in West Coast Today, The discount retailer, owned by T.J Morris LTD, is seeking planning permission for external alterations to the unit.

According to the application, the firm does not intend to change the use of the store.

The news comes just days after the Lochavullin Industrial Estate store announced it would pull the shutters down on January 18.

Ian Gallacher, Director of Iceni Projects, in connection with the application, said: “We understand that Home Bargains have secured the unit, and planning permission is sought for the external alterations to the existing retail unit on the northeast, southwest, northwest and southeast elevations.

“The proposal of development does not change the use of Unit 1, rather is in relation to the alterations necessary for the change in ownership from Homebase to Home Bargains.”

The statement added: “The proposal does not involve the development of new buildings or floorspace.

“The proposed development comprises alterations to the existing retail unit and therefore, is considered to have a lesser impact on the climate and nature crisis than ‘new’ forms of retail development.”

This comes after Sainsbury’s revealed it had bought ten Homebase stores with plans to convert them into supermarkets.

The acquisition of the stores and refit programme is expected to cost Sainsbury’s £130million.

DIY retailer B&Q also announced earlier this week it would acquire five English stores, with plans to transform them into B&Q sites.