Ambitious plans have approved for a new coach depot and headquarters on Eastern Avenue - with a hint of more to come.

Plans now approved by Gloucester City Council show a proposal to raze buildings to the ground on the corner of Eastern Avenue and Eastbrook Road to make way for the scheme.

Bennetts Coaches, which turns over an estimated £3 million to £4 million annually, submitted the proposal which will mean a substantial investment and expansion of its business premises.

"It is definitely good news," said Gavin Bennett, grandson of the founder, Arthur and son of Peter who ran the company until recently with Gavin's uncle, Ray.

"The reason for the application is that the current building is getting tired. We would like to give staff a better place to work, better facilities, bigger offices and more room to expand."

Mr Bennett stressed that the company had no immediate plans to expand its operations - with work probably not starting until the year after next - but the new building would give it the capacity - should that opportunity arise.

The firm could potentially take its fleet to 40 vehicles and accommodate more staff.

According to the submission to the council, signed by Mr Bennett and Trevor Thorn, of construction firm Thorn Homes, the plans include: "Demolition of single storey substandard workshops and stores and replacement with modern two-storey buildings with offices, service bays and heavy stores on ground floor with offices, general stores and welfare accommodation over.

"Close existing access and re-open and modify entrance onto Eastbrook Road. It includes the demolition of car sales office and replacement."

Bennetts has been in business in Gloucestershire for more than 50 years and runs a fleet of 33 coaches. Its employs 60 full and part time staff who also raise thousands of pounds annually for chosen charities.

Bennetts Coaches has been picking up an increasing amount of work with National Express.

It was also involved in transporting police during both the UK visit by President Donald Trump and the Royal wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May.