Talks with a major retailer to anchor the Friarsgate redevelopment in Lichfield are at an “advanced” stage.
Councillors voted to extend their agreement with Development Securities PLC for the project at a meeting last night (April 1) after hearing that talks were underway with a national retailer.
Residents will be hoping that the Friarsgate scheme will finally move in the right direction after a number of delays.
The development is due to feature a department store, shops and eateries as well as a cinema.
Cllr Mike Wilcox, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that the negotiations carried out by Development Securities have led to a leading retailer signalling its support for the planned scheme.
“We’re sorry to leave people on a knife edge and it’s a real shame that we cannot release the name at this stage, but we understand for commercial reasons it needs to remain confidential.
“On the back of the news, councillors were keen to extend the development agreement to allow the team at Development Securities more time to sign up other retailers to the scheme, and to progress the plans for its development.
“We’re really pleased that this moves us one step closer to achieving our vision to deliver new shops and entertainment, as well as more jobs and housing opportunities in the heart of the city.”
The next stage will see Development Securities PLC further developing the designs for the scheme and submitting a new planning application for the scheme, as well as further work on land acquisition and negotiations with key retailers.
The Friarsgate project has proved controversial, with some groups in the city calling for a rethink of the entire development.
However, Lichfield District Council warned that any decision to backtrack on the scheme would prove costly.
