As the economy continues to recover, developers are increasingly seeking commercial property opportunities in regional areas, both in the form of new and redevelopment projects. This is giving towns such as Northallerton in North Yorkshire access to multi-million retail and leisure schemes which will both boost tourism levels and grant local residents a greater diversity within the immediate area.
The proposed redevelopment scheme for Northallerton will see a stand-alone mixed use complex constructed on the site of the former, and now disused, Ruston Hospital which will allow for the preservation of Grade II listed buildings in the vicinity. As the works will all be conducted within the town centre, the project will also benefit public infrastructure, with highways and public access improvements due to be undertaken on Brompton Road and Friarage Street.
Property development firm Jomast will spearhead the project, and has already revealed that Marks & Spencer has expressed an interest in taking out a lease for an 850 square metre anchor food store within the complex. This new store would include a café, and would allow the retailer to move from its existing smaller store on the High Street.
Development director at Jomast, Adam Hearld, believes the development would give Marks & Spencer the ideal opportunity to expand in the area without losing its central location in Northallerton.
He says; “The former Ruston Hospital site represents an exciting opportunity to bring a prominent vacant town centre site back into use.
“Our scheme will allow Marks & Spencer to relocate into a larger and purpose built store and introduce a new café facility, improving consumer choice and creating new employment opportunities.”
In terms of preservation, the site is surrounded by a number of Grade II listed buildings which Jomast believes are ripe for sensitive rejuvenation schemes. As part of the plans, the developer has already outlined an initiative for one property to be transformed into a pub and restaurant, creating diversity on the High Street and encouraging a greater dwell time in the retail district.
At present, national planning and economics consultancy Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners’ Newcastle office is holding a consultation, which members of the public have been invited to attend. Should the proposals gain public approval, Jomast intends to submit a formal planning application in July.
Senior director at Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners, Jonathan Wallace, says; “The redevelopment site is located within a conservation area and lies in a sensitive location from a heritage perspective.
“We have therefore spent considerable time developing a scheme in consultation with officers at Hambleton Council and are pleased to now be in a position to consult with the wider community.”
Along with the commercial property aspect, the plans would see Northallerton benefit from the creation of a public courtyard garden and new car park for up to 40 vehicles – both initiatives which have proven popular when introduced to Portas pilot towns. Should planning permission be granted later this year, Northallerton could see both its own economy and the wider regional economy benefit hugely as a result of the scheme.
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