THE DEVELOPER behind a controversial new retail park proposed for the edge of Worcester has agreed to scale back its plans amid concerns it could damage the city centre.
Proposals have been submitted to Worcester City Council to create a multi-million pound shopping complex off Newtown Road, which could create about 1,000 jobs.
A John Lewis at Home could be built on the site while major retailers Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury’s and Next Home and Garden have also signed up to the scheme.
However, the proposals, which were unveiled by Land Securities in September, have sparked concerns from city centre traders as they fear it could damage their businesses.
More than 200 people attended a three day public exhibition to view the plans, while the developer also presented the plans to a number of local groups, including Worcester BID.
After receiving feedback as part of the consultation, a number of changes have been made to the final scheme including reducing the amount of restaurants and cafes in a bid to “limit competition” with city centre stores.
The proposed access to the site has also been altered, with the introduction of a new roundabout and additional traffic lane on Nunnery Way, while a new pedestrian crossing at the island between Newtown Road and Charles Hastings Way has been included.
A spokesman for Land Securities insisted the complex would have “no material impact” on the turnover of the city centre, which they believe will continue to grow alongside the proposed development.
He also said it would encourage people to stay in Worcester as he revealed about £113million was lost each year to competing centres such as Birmingham and Cheltenham.
Nick Duffield, portfolio director for Land Securities, added: “The proposed development will deliver a real boost for Worcester by creating up to 1,000 new jobs for local people, delivering £40million to £50million of inward investment and creating a new retail destination that will enhance the scale and quality of the retail offer in Worcester.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has taken part in the public consultation as the feedback we’ve received has really helped us improve the final development.
“We are looking forward to Worcester City Council making a decision on the plans and will continue to engage with the local community as the application progresses.”
To view the full application visit Worcester City Council’s website and use the planning reference number P14Q0562.
