Council chiefs approve Fred Perry’s expansion plans

Fred Perry has been granted planning permission to extend its Nottingham store at 48-50 Bridlesmith Gate.

The upmarket clothing brand is now free to make alterations to the basement of its Grade II-listed city centre premises, which it intends to open up to retail trade.

The ground floor of the building will also undergo a “decorative re-fit.”

The decision will be seen as a show of confidence in retail on Bridlesmith Gate, which has suffered since the partial closure of the nearby intu Broadmarsh shopping centre.

A statement on behalf of Fred Perry said: “Fred Perry have made the decision to extend retail into the basement. This will allow them to extend the product range availability. This is a necessary requirement which may help towards the regeneration of Bridlesmith Gate as a fashion retail destination which is already facing many unoccupied stores.”

The company has occupied the unit since 2005.