A prominent independently-operated garden centre in Preston is set to be sold to a national group.
Barton Grange Garden Centre, which is owned by the Topping family, has been trading since 2008 at the current premises Garstang Road in Brock.
The family have stated that ‘after careful consideration’ they have entered talks with Blue Diamond over the sale of the garden centre and nursery. The history of the Topping family and the Barton site dates back to the 1950s.
Read more: Plans formally submitted for 350 new homes at former Camelot Theme Park
The site includes the Marina and The Flower Bowl leisure complex which would not form part of any deal.
Blue Diamond are the largest garden centre group in the UK with 49 sites.
A statement signed by brothers Peter and Guy Topping said: “With the next generation focusing on new paths outside of horticulture, and both Peter and Guy ready to slow things down, we felt now was the time to make a change. Several of the younger members of the family are passionate about the leisure industry, so we’ll be keeping The Flower Bowl, the Marina, and most of the site at Brock.
“We’ve always been impressed with Blue Diamond, and we feel confident they’re the right team to take the Garden Centre and nursery forward. They share our values and passion for the industry, and we’re sure they’ll continue to build on what we’ve created here.
“The hardest part of this decision is saying goodbye to the people; our team and of course the wonderful customers who’ve supported us through the years. Your loyalty and enthusiasm have meant the world to us, and we’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved together. Thank you for being part of our story.”
In February this year Barton Grange was crowned as the best garden centre in the UK.
Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.
Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines
