A VACANT premises at Cockhedge Shopping Centre could be transformed into a veterinary practice by October.

Quality Pet Care has registered a planning application with the authority in an attempt to change the use from 'retail to a non-residential institution as a vets'.

The business, which will be trading as The Vet if blueprints are approved, would be situated in the building which has been occupied by the Changing Lives in Warrington store.

But due to the agreement in place with the landlord the site is listed as vacant and available.

However, the organisation confirmed it is hoping to 'negotiate' an agreement for another premises in the town.

Plans for The Vet include the construction of a reception area, consultation rooms, administration offices, dog grooming facilities, three theatres, an x-ray room, sterilisation room, staff space, two shower areas, as well as dog and cat wards.

The firm would operate from 8am to 8pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 4pm on weekends, while up to 15 employees would be required once the business opens.

Marketing director Clare Young said the organisation is 'really looking forward to' providing 'accessible and affordable pet care in the Warrington community'.

She added: "The Vet offers a no appointment system and is open evenings and weekends, which makes it much easier for clients to fit quality pet care into their busy lives.

"Our clinics are much bigger than typical veterinary practices, which allows us to have several vets consulting at a time, as well as operations happening behind the scenes, making better use of the vets' time.

"We're really hoping to get planning permission for this exciting venture and look forward to meeting the pets of the Warrington community very soon."

Management are also confident the change of use will not have a negative impact on parking at the shopping centre.

A statement in the planning documents said the 'reoccupation of the vacant unit will offer a valuable' service to the town.

It added: "The parade parking court has approximately 400 car spaces including commensurate disability spaces.

"There are no proposed extensions or external alterations except for replacement advertisements and signage and like for like repair work to windows and doors.

"The proposal will also generate a range of high quality employment opportunities and will assist the economy.

"The Vet logo signs to the front and rear elevations will be internally illuminated by 130 lumens."

If planning permission is given Quality Pet Care hopes to open by October.

The application expires on July 5.