The Boots chemists have shut down closure fears about a planning application for its store at a busy shopping area in Calcot. 

There are rumours that the chemists at the Savacentre shopping area off Bath Road could close.

That's because a plan has emerged to allow for food sales at the unit it occupies.

A planning agent for the Savacentre landowners states that Boots is due to close as it is 'reaching its lease expiry'.

The news has led to concern from neighbours about the store's future, and the pharmacy provided in-store. 

However, a spokesperson has replied that the Boots will remain in place for a number of years to come.

The Boots spokesperson said: “Boots is aware of this planning application but we would like to assure our customers that we have no plans to close our store in Calcot.

"Our lease of the building is secure for several more years.”

There has been speculation over what the Boots will be converted into when it eventually closes. 

Unconfirmed rumours have spread online that the unit could be occupied by peri-peri chicken chain Nando's.

The description of the plan states that the application is to allow the 'unrestricted use' of the unit 'including the sale of both non-food and food and drink products'.

That could mean it could be taken over by a supermarket or discount store. 

You can view the application by typing reference 24/00863/FUL into West Berkshire Council's planning portal.