A question mark hangs over the future of two of Kent’s best-loved garden centres as investors discuss a major restructure of the company which could result in closures.

Dobbies Garden Centres has sites on Ashford’s Eureka Leisure Park and on Courteney Road in Gillingham. It also has another outlet in nearby Bromley.

After reporting heavy losses in its last financial report, it is understood its controlling investor, Ares Management, is in talks over a restructuring plan.

The US investors took over the company 18 months ago.

Reports suggest it could result in the closure of some underperforming stores and a reduction in monies paid to creditors - which could include rent owed to landlords of the sites across its network of 77 stores nationwide.

Across its portfolio, Dobbies employs some 3,700 people.

It has been suggested should a deal not be agreed with its creditors, the next step could be the chain falling into administration.

The garden centre was founded back in 1865 by James Dobbie and has grown to become one of the best-known garden centre brands.

However, it reported being hit hard by a slew of factors over recent years, including the pandemic, inflation, the cost-of-living and inclement weather all contributing to significant losses.

Dobbies did not respond when contacted by KentOnline nor has it been hinted which stores could be at risk.