Decision details

The Executive Leader, Councillor Alistair Bradley presented the report of the Director (Business, Development and Growth) which updates Members update on the current status of the project and proposed phasing.  The report also outlines the status of associated parking, public realm and enablement projects which are linked to the delivery of the project.

On 23 January 2018 Council resolved to proceed without further delay, with the Market Walk Extension development based upon Option 2.  A major concern for existing businesses within the town centre has been the impact of lost parking spaces in close proximity to the retail core during phase 2 works.  The impact to parking across the town centre of the proposed phasing plan is detailed in the report. 

The current development and parking costs are set out in the report, along with the estimated net distributable income on a fully let scheme.  Marks & Spencer had, that evening, signed the contract. 

The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Alan Cullens, congratulated the Leader on this news and requested more frequent meetings of the Market Walk Steering Group. 

The Executive Leader, Councillor Alistair Bradley proposed and the Deputy Leader, Councillor Peter Wilson seconded the Decision – to note the progress of the scheme in line with the programme proposed in Appendix A to enable trading to commence for Christmas 2019.