Maidenhead: Plans for redevelopment given green light
A £500 million redevelopment proposal for the Nicholsons Shopping Centre and surrounding area in Maidenhead, hailed as the blueprint for all future UK town centre developments, has been consented following approval in principle from the planning authority.
The approved plans are part of a wider plan to regenerate Maidenhead which will see the creation of up to 2,700 new jobs, the provision of approximately 653 new apartments, significant new office accommodation and bespoke retail space, including areas for independent shops, restaurants, cafes and associated experience uses.
The planning application also proposes opening up historic streets and thoroughfares lost in previous redevelopments, and the creation of a new Sir Nicholas Winton public square.
The site, known as the Nicholson Quarter, sits in the High Street and Broadway and will see the provision of a new multi-storey car park.
Councillor Andrew Johnson, leader of the council, said: “The £500m proposals for the Nicholson Quarter have been called the blueprint for all future UK town centre developments and I’m delighted that those plans and that investment is one step closer to reality following the approval in principle of this planning application.
“At a time when the future of our high streets and town centres are a big part of the national debate around the economic recovery, I am proud that Maidenhead is leading the way in shaping that future by approving the UK’s first major town centre regeneration proposal following the coronavirus pandemic.
“The developer has sought to engage with the community on the proposals over the past two years and council officers have worked tirelessly with them to refine the scheme and ensure we deliver the best possible place and the highest levels of sustainability. The unanimous approval of the application is an endorsement of this work which has sought to deliver the best outcomes for Maidenhead and its residents.
“It is also another major site in Maidenhead that forms part of the regeneration of the town as we build a borough of opportunity and innovation, reaffirming our commitment to support the local economy following the coronavirus pandemic. It will bring opportunities through building and construction work right through to retail opportunities and giving local start-ups the opportunity to develop.”
The rejuvenation of the Nicholsons Shopping Centre and area around it will see approximately 653 apartments, 307 of which have been set aside for sheltered accommodation, circa 29,000m2 of office space and circa 8,300m2 of flexible retail space.
The proposed development would replace a range of buildings including the shopping centre, offices and 17 dwellings. Central House and Siena Court could also be demolished.
The planning application was considered and unanimously approved at the development management panel on Wednesday, March 3, 2021.
