PUBLIC consultation is to begin in a few weeks’ time on plans to regenerate and revitalise part of Nuneaton town centre.
St James’ Investments and their partners Land Securities have entered into an agreement with the borough council to redevelop the top end of Abbey Street.
The multi-million pound scheme involves the car park in Abbey Street, the derelict Kingsholme pub and the Gala Bingo Hall which was the Ritz Cinema.
James Hepburn of St James Investments (SJI) said: “We are delighted to have completed the agreement with the council to revitalise the Abbey Street area with new retail and leisure opportunities, keeping more trade in town and helping the town centre as a whole.”
He added: “We are working on our initial plans at the moment and are looking to share them with the community during the consultation after the end of the summer holidays.”
St James Investments and Land Securities are working with award-winning architects Glenn Howells to draw up the regeneration project.
The plans that will transform what has become a rundown part of the town centre, include new retail and leisure facilities and a food store.
They also involve the redevelopment of the Kingsholme pub site as a nine-pump petrol station accessed off the Roanne Ringway.
An outline planning application for the site is to be submitted shortly to allow additional time for discussion on them before they are finalised.
The plans will go on show at an exhibition in the autumn so that people can see them and have their say.
Councillor Dennis Harvey, leader of the borough council, has already welcomed the proposals.
He said: “This is excellent news and demonstrates real confidence in Nuneaton town centre.”
But he added: “We have worked very hard to ensure that the proposed scheme is appropriate, realistic and deliverable.”
