OVER 80 new full and part-time jobs are set to be created at a new purpose-built garden centre near Thruxton.

The new development, called Rosebourne, is set to replace the former Weyhill Nursery.

It expected to create over 80 new full and part-time jobs for locals, including apprenticeships, and will also house the previously closed Thruxton Post Office.

Rosebourne will offer customers locally sourced produce, table service dining as well as traditional plants and unique gifts.

The centre plans to open for the 2016 August Bank Holiday, and will also seek to establish itself as a central hub for the local community, working with businesses, schools and community groups.

The plans for Rosebourne have been created in close consultation with neighbouring Thruxton and Amport Parish Councils, and have been specially developed to ensure the redevelopment causes minimum impact on the surrounding area.

Re-used water for irrigation, a tree planting scheme to increase the natural cover from the road, specially designed lighting to reduce light pollution and adherence to strict noise controls, are just some of the measures being taken.

Rosebourne has worked closely with HPW Architecture to develop the design and structure.

Bob Dalton from HPW Architecture, said: “It will simply be a great place to go and enjoy what the plant and food producers of Hampshire can offer.”

Neville Prest, Rosebourne managing director, said: “The vision for Rosebourne offers something wholly new to the old notion of a garden centre.

“Hampshire has a wealth of food, drink and plant producers that is second-to-none, and our vision is to create an exciting, thriving and quality destination that showcases all this wonderful produce.

“With our focus on working handin- hand with the local community and using regional suppliers, coupled with the welcome re-opening of Thruxton Post Office, we hope Rosebourne will quickly become the heartbeat of this part of Hampshire and a destination everyone is proud of.”