MORE jobs will be created after plans to extend a Sedgemoor garden centre were approved this week.

MORE jobs will be created after plans to extend a Sedgemoor garden centre were approved this week.

Flying in the face of the current economic climate, managers at Sanders GardenWorld in Brent Knoll had applied to development their site off Bristol Road last year.

The extension will provide 35,000 sq ft extra space, making the massive site almost double in size.

The area will be used to sell more of the same products already at the garden centre, including furniture, barbecues, gift ware and plants.

Wyevale Garden Centres Ltd, the company behind the multi-million pound scheme, say the new expansion could create about 100 jobs.

General manager Peter Burks said: "It is really positive news, particularly for all the staff who have worked so hard.

"The decision was deferred for several weeks so the news comes after an awful long wait.

"The expansion will be good for the store, but also the entire area. We attract tourists to the area and keep them in Sedgemoor.

"The plans will also create about 100 new jobs.

"It is hoped we will start the building work this year, but nothing is finalised.

"I think being given the go ahead is a real vote of confidence for Sanders.

"Although there is the recession, horticultural businesses usually don't suffer. "Everyone finds gardening a relaxing hobby and people who are trying to save money will try their hand at growing their own vegetables.

"We certainly haven't seen a drop in business over the last four months. In fact, visitors often comment on how busy it is."

The plans were given the go ahead on Tuesday evening by Sedgemoor District Council's development control committee.

Before a decision was made, several objections had been lodged by residents, who claimed a larger garden centre would take economy away from Burnham and Highbridge.