The site at Ingles Manor is set to be converted into private residences and office space after the proposal was granted planning permission by Shepway District Council.

Up to 20 jobs are set to be lost at the garden centre when it closes.

A Wyevale Garden Centres spokesperson said: "Our goal is to deliver the very best service and products to our customers across the UK and we've enjoyed operating Folkestone Garden Centre.

"The landlord of the garden centre has obtained planning consent to use the site for residential purposes. As a result, we have been served notice to terminate our lease with effect in March 2017.

"We will be in touch with our loyal local customers, including The Garden Club members, with further information on where their nearest Wyevale Garden Centre can be found so they can continue shopping with us."

Plans to develop Ingles Manor have proved controversial over the years, with members of protest group Go Folkestone split over environmental matters and the "adverse impact" it may have on the area.

But the granting of planning permission has spelt the end for the popular garden centre.

The WGC spokesman added: "We are very grateful for the dedication and commitment of the entire Folkestone team.

"We are currently working closely with all our colleagues to ensure we support them as best we can through this transition and we're trying our best to find alternative employment for them at other locations where possible.”