AN AMBITIOUS £8m retail project in north Staffordshire has taken a step closer to reality after the developers behind it submitted a planning application.
Birmingham-based St. Modwen is hoping to turn around 250,000 sq ft of derelict land in Longton into a 42,100 sq ft warehouse containing five separate retail units.
There will also be a neighbouring McDonald’s Drive Thru and 233 parking spaces on the Phoenix Retail Park which is near the A50 and has been empty for nearly two decades after the Phoenix Timber yard closed.
The site has existing planning consent for a retail DIY store but the original proposed occupier withdrew at the onset of the recession.
Along with the burger chain, lettings have been agreed with retailers Smyths Toys and Pets at Home to occupy 15,000 sq ft and 7,500 sq ft units respectively.
The company says it is also in discussions with other, unnamed parties for the remaining retail units which range from 5,100 – 7,500 sq ft.
Previous redevelopment plans for the site were cancelled at the beginning of the recession and it is estimated that this latest project will create up to 160 jobs.
Senior development manager for St. Modwen Euan Lindsay said: “Development of the former Phoenix Timber site is long overdue and this latest application has been submitted with the intention of stimulating new development and investment in Longton by bringing forward a scheme which has significant occupier interest.
“We believe this new planning application better reflects the current marketplace and the kind of development.
Subject to planning approval, St. Modwen anticipates construction beginning on site early next year completion ready for Christmas.
