Telford superstore plan set to get the go-ahead on former school site
Ambitious plans to build a superstore and other shops on the site of a former school – bringing 80 jobs to the area – are poised to win approval.
Telford & Wrekin Council's planning committee will meet in the next few days to discuss plans for a retail development on the former Madeley Court School site, off Parkway, which could see retail giants Lidl, Subway and Poundworld moving in.
A veterinary practice is also planned for the site, with Vets4Pets expected to occupy the space.
A fifth retail unit, yet to be snapped up by a potential tenant, is also in the pipeline.
Officers have recommended that councillors give their backing to the plans, despite a number of objections.
Property consultant GL Hearn has objected on behalf of the owners of Telford Shopping Centre.
According to the report, there are concerns that it will "attract motorised shoppers drawing footfall from Telford town centre, having a harmful impact on the vitality and vibrancy of this principal town centre".
It has also requested that careful restrictions are imposed through conditions to "ensure the harmful impact on the wider area is limited as much as possible".
The council has also received eight objections from residents who have fears over potential noise issues, as well as a rise in crime and anti-social behaviour.
But a report to the planning committee reads: "In addition to good accessibility and connectivity, the proposal will bring about economic and social benefits in the form of job creation both during the construction period and operational phase generating approximately 80 jobs in an accessible location, and will improve the range and choice of retail units within Madeley district centre.
"The development may also enhance the existing primary shopping area through the creation of linked trips to existing businesses in the area."
The school closed in 2009 when pupils were re-located to the newly-built Madeley Academy. It would be the second phase of development on the site, which already has Aldi and KFC on it.
Under the plans submitted by Telford & Wrekin Council, Lidl would occupy the largest unit, which would be more than 24,000sq ft.
More than 200 car parking spaces are also planned, which would be free to use for shoppers.
The plans will be discussed at a meeting on Wednesday at 6pm.
