A CHILDREN'S swimming school has been granted permission to open up at Barons Quay, while a coffee shop has outlined what its signage might look like.

Puddle Ducks, which runs classes for children aged up to 10 years old, is hoping to convert a unit between H&M and Wildwood into its flagship teaching centre.

The unit – which is also subject to a live planning application for Puddle Ducks signage – would be next door to the proposed 'Sticky Paws in the Flavour Forest' soft play and restaurant.

Meanwhile, The Coffee House has proposed shopfront signage for its corner unit opposite the entrance to the former Marks and Spencer building.

Northwich Guardian:

Proposed Coffee House signage

As well as signage on the Asda-facing windows, there would be a logo on the wall facing out towards Witton Street.

The independent chain of coffee shops, will add to existing venues in Lymm, Partington, Sale and Widnes.

River Island also had its signage plans – for a unit opposite The Entertainer – approved in September.

Cheshire West and Chester Council planning officer Steven Holmes said the Puddle Ducks unit would help boost the town centre's development.

Northwich Guardian:

The Puddle Ducks signage plans are yet to be approved

In approving the plans, he said: "The proposal would not result in the loss of a [retail] use since the unit benefits from flexible permission and is currently vacant.

"It is considered that the proposed use would be commensurate with the function of and role of the primary shopping centre and would preserve or enhance its vitality and viability."

When plans were submitted in September, Puddle Ducks co-founder Jo Stone said the town centre had a bright future ahead.

The first classes took place in Greenbank in the early 2000s, before expanding across Cheshire.

The news follows another successful change of use application for a dental surgery in a unit between Card Factory and the steps to Sainsbury's car park.