M&S-led retail scheme at Longbridge green-lighted
DEVELOPER St Modwen has announced it will shortly begin work on the second phase of retail development on its 468 acre former MG Rover site at Longbridge in Birmingham, including a 150,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store.
The news follows planning committee approval of a resolution to grant planning permission for the Marks & Spencer store and an additional 45,000 sq ft of retail space, together with surface and multi-storey car parks.
More than 500 new jobs are expected to be created as part of the construction process and following its completion.
Construction work is expected to start on site in the autumn, with planned completion scheduled to enable trading by Christmas 2015.
Bill Oliver, chief executive of Birmingham-based St Modwen, said: “The development of the new 150,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store, the anchor of the second phase of the new town centre at Longbridge, represents a significant milestone at this major regeneration project and is a key part of our overall aim to create business and employment opportunities in the area.”
Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “It is extremely encouraging for Longbridge to see this substantial level of investment from a major national retailer.
“This significant commitment by Marks & Spencer is a reflection of the ever increasing confidence being generated by Longbridge and in south west Birmingham and recognition of the impressive impact St Modwen has made in the regeneration of this important brownfield site.”
St Modwen originally acquired the 468 acre former MG Rover site at Longbridge in 2003. The scheme constitutes a 15-year, £1bn regeneration project.
