A ‘major UK food retailer’ is in the running to build a new supermarket in Whitchurch, it has been revealed.
Property development and investment group Terrace Hill has announced it is working on the plans for the 40,000 sq ft supermarket on land off London Road.
The news follows months of rumours about developers eyeing up sites in the town.
Last week it emerged planning agents Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners have lodged a pre-application with the town council on behalf of a mystery client who wishes to build a retail food store with 313 car parking spaces, access road, and a four-island filling station – all within walking distance of the town centre.
This sparked debate in the town, with some traders fearing the proposal will sound a death knell for independent high street shops.
Terrace Hill is currently negotiating on the nine-acre site off London Road and will submit a planning application later this year after a public consulation.
Paul Boyfield of Terrace Hill said: “Terrace Hill is working on plans for a new supermarket in Whitchurch. The new food store will be located on land to the north of London Road.
“The location, very close to the town centre, will provide an opportunity to deliver improved quality and choice to shoppers.
“Terrace Hill is currently in discussions with a major UK food retailer and hopes to be able to make an announcement about the proposed supermarket operator in the near future.
“Whitchurch currently has two small food stores, resulting in many residents travelling away from the town to do their main weekly food shop. The new supermarket will also benefit other retailers by enticing shoppers back into the town.
“Once the operator is secured, we will launch a full consultation programme before submitting a planning application.”
A spokesperson for Shropshire Council confirmed planning officers have held pre-application discussions with a potential applicant for a new supermarket in the town.
by Charlotte Hester