Carpetmaker Brintons’ former base to be transformed into leisure scheme

EXCHANGE Street Properties has submitted a planning application to Wyre Forest District Council to develop a key site in Kidderminster town centre.

The application focuses on plans to transform the former headquarters of carpetmaker Brintons into a leisure destination. The development includes proposals to restore the Grade II listed building which is in the town centre.

The 42,000 sq ft development would create approximately 20,000 sq ft of retail/restaurant space, with the main frontage being on Riverside Walk but including a separate building with a frontage to Exchange Street/Town Hall Square.

The site is owned by local developer Max Goucher who recently brought the former building.

“I grew up in Kidderminster and the Brintons name is synonymous with the area. When I heard the site was for sale I immediately felt an affiliation for the location and to bring this historical unused building to life again,” he said.

Goucher was a minor joint venture partner of the Weavers Wharf scheme in the town centre and is keen to continue to be involved in the transformation of Kidderminster town centre.

Councillor John Campion, Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration, said “The district council has exciting plans to transform the public realm in Kidderminster during the course of the next year that will see improved spaces from Exchange Street through to the Bull Ring and High Street and we welcome proposals that bring that will bring that vision to life.”
 
It is likely that the application will be assessed later in the summer. Pending approval work is likely to start on site late 2014/early 2015.

Specialist retail property consultancy Wright Silverwood is acting on behalf of Exchange Street Properties.