Exciting plans with the potential to vastly improve the retail offer in Prudhoe are being proposed as part of a new scheme which sees Northumberland Estates working in partnership with Arch, The Northumberland Development Company.
Plans are being drawn up for a town centre retail development located on the former allotment site off Front Street. Providing approximately 15,000 sq.ft. of retail space, the site would be linked through to existing town centre shops. A second retail development is also proposed on land off Princess Way. Plans here include up to 30,000 sq.ft. of food-store space, and 40,000 sq.ft. of non-food retail units, alongside a Petrol Filling Station, Drive Thru’ Restaurant, hotel, and family pub/restaurant.
Colin Barnes, Head of PLanning at Northumberland Estates says “Although one of the larger towns in Northumberland, Prudhoe has a surprisingly limited number and variety of retail outlets for its size. With plans for more housing in the town already on the cards, improving the retail offer is vital to avoid trade being lost to neighbouring town centres with more choice.” “Together these proposals present the opportunity to significantly regenerate Prudhoe, creating up to 200 new jobs, unlocking the development potential of otherwise constrained sites, and providing a much needed catalyst for future economic growth in the town. Together with Arch we have been working closely with Northumberland County Council and have presented our initial plans to Prudhoe Town Council to consider all of the many planning issues that these development opportunities present.
Cllr Dave Ledger, Chair of Arch and Deputy Leader of Northumberland County Council said: “We want to have a prosperous county with sustainable economic growth – one where businesses can thrive and people have access to quality jobs. This next stage is set to provide fantastic opportunities for growth, and attract private sector investment. I hope people take this opportunity to come along to see and comment about what is proposed.”
A Public Consultation event was held on Thursday 17 March, 15:30-19:00, at The Spetchells Centre, Front Street, Prudhoe. Further information can be found at www.investinginprudhoe.co.uk and the public are encouraged to provide feedback at this website.
