The independent family-run garden centre business Okells was recently recognised for its restoration efforts in the Chester village of Hoole.
The Chester Civic Trust presented the enterprise with its 2025 “Judges Special Award” for its work in restoring and reinvigorating a building on Walker Street that was formerly a Co-op.
Now in its 65th year, the Chester Civic Trust’s dedicated awards scheme is designed to recognise the beneficial changes happening in Chester’s civic and property scene. Additionally, it encourages businesses in the city to hold the highest public building standards for maintenance and design.
The former Co-op sited in Walker Street opened its doors back in 1906 and combined several businesses including a butcher and grocer at street level and a clothing and shoe store above. In later years, it housed a convenience store and Co-op Funeralcare. In summer 2017, the store officially closed after over a century of Co-op operations. In the following years, the vacant building became run down and fell into a state of disrepair.
Commenting on the garden centre’s transformative efforts, judges for the trust commented:
“It is great to see that Okells has refurbished the building to provide a new shop selling plants, homeware and gifts together with a café. This is a really good addition to the vibrant Hoole local shopping quarter.”
Director for the business, George Okell, expressed pleasure at receiving the distinguished award and thanks to all involved in the extensive renovation project which has taken almost two years to complete.
