A former Carpetright store taken over by Bensons for Beds looks set to be transformed into a charity superstore.

The Canterbury branch of the doomed retailer was taken on as part of Bensons’ plans to save some of the business in a move revealed in August.

The carpet and flooring giant closed over 200 shops UK-wide and laid off more than 1,500 employees when it was bought out by rival Tapi upon entering administration.

Now, Cancer Research has submitted papers to the city council detailing its intention to move into the Vauxhall Road site and open a charity “superstore”.

If the building changes hands, it will offer primarily donated goods such as furniture, homeware, fashion, books and technology.

It will also act as a donation centre for supporters to drop off similar second-hand items.

In documents sent to Canterbury City Council, bosses said the importance of its ability to receive and sell donated goods “cannot be underestimated”.

“The larger stores must have convenient parking and offer a retail area which can display a wide range of products including furniture, homeware, fashion, books, DVDs and CDs and small electrical items,” they add.

“The majority of the items displayed and sold have been previously used.”

The charity estimates moving into the retail park would bring in more than £1 million a year and would be the fourth such superstore in Kent.

Cancer Research also operates similar sites in Strood, Thanet and the Isle of Sheppey.

A total of 10 jobs would be created alongside 20 volunteering opportunities, while trading hours would be 9am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

Canterbury was among 10 Carpetright stores in Kent which closed this year, with Bensons’ acquisition of some Kent shops forming part of a wider scheme across the country.

Bensons for Beds and Cancer Research have been contacted for comment regarding the Canterbury store.