Retail outlet reveals expansion plans which could create 350 jobs

How the expanded venue could look

Up to 350 jobs could be created after Springfields Outlet, the Spalding shopping and leisure destination, announced proposals for a major new investment in the centre.

Owner the Triton Property Fund is launching a public consultation on plans which could see around 15 new stores and cafes and restaurants being built.

Last Friday (8th March), the Joint Strategic Planning Committee agreed to adopt the new South East Lincolnshire Local Plan, prepared jointly by Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council. The Local Plan supports the provision of new retail space in Spalding at Springfields.

The improvements to Springfields Outlet are proposed on Camel Gate, on the site of the NFU Mutual building and the car park next to Travelodge.

The proposed new development at Springfields Outlet includes 15 new stores; up to four new restaurants and cafes; 236 additional parking spaces, and the introduction of more electric vehicle chargers.

Springfields Outlet has secured an agreement with NFU Mutual to relocate its offices to a new site next to the retail outlet. This will be the subject of a separate planning application.

It is expected that around 350 new jobs would be created, adding to the 650 jobs already at Springfields.

Before submitting a planning application for the proposals, Springfields Outlet would like to consult with the community. As part of the public consultation, an exhibition of the proposals will be held in Unit 9, next to Chapelle Jewellery on North Avenue at Springfields on Friday 22nd March, between 3pm and 6pm and on Saturday 23rd March, between 10am and 4pm.

Ian Sanderson of SLR Outlets, which operate Springfields said: “I’ve been involved with Springfields Outlet since the very beginning and 2018 was undoubtedly our most successful year, despite the challenging retail environment nationally.

“During last year new retailers including Joules, Jack Wills, White Stuff and The Cosmetics Company Store have all opened stores here. Also the new family attraction Adventure Land has welcomed thousands of people since it opened in the summer.

“South East Lincolnshire’s new Local Plan supports the proposed expansion of the retail offer at Springfields. In addition, we’ve had interest from a number of new high-quality brands, none of which have existing local stores. Springfields is small in comparison to other outlet centres in the country, but by extending we can further improve the overall offer at Springfields, helping to attract more visitors to the area and in turn creating more jobs for local people.

“However, before we submit a planning application to South Holland District Council, we would like to know what local people think of the proposals. So we would encourage people to attend the public consultation or view the proposals online and give us their views.”

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