Turkuaz Applies to Open Turkish Restaurant at Trowbridge Leisure Park

Turkuaz has taken the first step towards opening a new restaurant in Trowbridge after submitting a premises licence application for a unit at St Stephen's Leisure Park. The proposed venue would occupy the former Chiquito restaurant, bringing the Turkish restaurant chain to Wiltshire as it continues to expand its footprint across southern England.

Turkuaz Targets Former Chiquito Unit

Trowbridge Turkuaz Ltd has applied to Wiltshire Council for a premises licence covering Unit 4 at St Stephen's Leisure Park. The restaurant is planned for the vacant unit located between Valeroso Lounge and Prezzo, a site that has remained empty for at least 18 months following the closure of Chiquito.

The licence application seeks permission to sell alcohol and provide live indoor and recorded music between 10am and midnight every day, subject to council approval.

Restaurant Chain Continues UK Expansion

Turkuaz currently operates restaurants in Aldershot, Feltham, Crawley and Staines, while additional locations in Eastleigh, Trowbridge and a second Crawley restaurant are listed as upcoming on the company's website.

The proposed Trowbridge venue forms part of the brand's continued expansion strategy, adding another location to its growing portfolio of Turkish dining restaurants across the UK.

Residents and Local Leaders Welcome Proposal

The proposal has received positive reactions from local councillors and many residents. Councillor Jo Trigg said it was encouraging to see another vacant unit at St Stephen's Leisure Park being filled, adding that the restaurant would provide more dining options for the town.

Councillor Palmen also welcomed the proposal, describing it as positive news for Trowbridge. Residents commenting on the plans highlighted the opportunity to experience another international cuisine, while others pointed to favourable customer reviews at the chain's existing Winchester restaurant.

Some residents said they hoped the application would receive approval, while others expressed interest in trying Turkish cuisine for the first time.

Leisure Park Continues to Attract New Businesses

St Stephen's Leisure Park is home to businesses including Odeon, Prezzo, Nando's and Valeroso Lounge. The site has experienced several changes in recent months, including the closure of Frankie & Benny's earlier this year and the continued vacancy of the former Chiquito premises.

The proposed arrival of Turkuaz would fill one of the development's long-empty restaurant units, contributing to the leisure park's food and beverage offering.

The application is currently under consideration by Wiltshire Council. If approved, the restaurant would introduce Turkish cuisine to St Stephen's Leisure Park while bringing another hospitality operator into one of the site's vacant units. 

Sources: Hospitality Career Profile