Plug pulled on retail development
DEVELOPER Henry Boot has pulled the plug on its £40m retail development planned for Burnley town centre.
The scheme had gained planning consent in May last year and had attracted Primark and Next to take 70,000 sq ft of space at the 150,00 sq ft development.
However, the Sheffield-based developer failed to attract other retailers to the project and has therefore decided not to progress with it.
Burnley Council chief executive Steve Rumbelow said: “This is very disappointing but it’s a result of circumstances outside our control. It just reflects what is happening in the economy across the whole country.
“Retailers have made a commercial decision. At the same time, we should be clear that a range of companies are still showing their commitment to expand their business in Burnley. This reflects their continued faith in this town as a vibrant shopping centre.”
He said that both the developer and the council had “done all we can to make the scheme work”, and thanked the developer for the investment it had put into the project.
Council leader coun Charlie Briggs said: “Britain’s retailers and high streets are facing the toughest times in living memory, and unfortunately Burnley isn’t immune to the effects of the economic downturn.”
