Swedish furniture retailer IKEA has moved a step closer in opening its new store in Chester.

Set to open on Greyhound Retail Park later this year, the new smaller-format store replaces a former Homebase unit.

The retailer has now seen plans for new signage at the premises approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

A council report recommending approval states: “It is considered that the proposed signage is acceptable with regards to visual amenity given its design and as it largely replaces existing signage.

“It is considered the proposed signage would maintain current levels of public safety given the simple form, design and position. Advertisement consent is recommended with the standard advertisement conditions and approved plans condition.”

IKEA first revealed plans for a Chester store back in April, along with other earmarked locations. Peter Jelkeby, IKEA UK and Ireland chief executive, said: “Harlow, Chester and Norwich have long been areas of interest to us, and we’re looking forward to bringing the very best of the IKEA experience in a refreshingly compact format to these communities later this year.”