Councillors in the West Midlands have given the official green light to a significant expansion of a retail park, a move set to bring hundreds of new jobs and major brands like Marks and Spencer and a drive-thru Greggs to the area.
Major Development Gets Unanimous Approval
The planning committee at East Staffordshire Borough Council voted unanimously to approve the application for the Shobnall retail park in Burton. The scheme will see underdeveloped land near the existing B&Q and Burger King transformed into a new retail and leisure destination.
The development is set to include eight new units, with confirmed occupants including a drive-thru Greggs, a Jolleys pet food store, and a substantial 24-lane Tenpin bowling venue. To support the increased footfall, the plan will add an additional 400 car parking spaces, taking the site's total capacity to more than 700 vehicles.
A New Flagship Store and Economic Boost
A central pillar of the project is the relocation of Marks and Spencer. Philip Marsden, the company's town planning manager, confirmed that the existing Coopers Square store will close when its lease expires in 2027 as it no longer meets the retailer's requirements.
The new store on Wellington Road will be three times the size of the current town centre location. Mr Marsden described this as a "clear sign of confidence in the town" and confirmed the new outlet will showcase the full M&S food range, featuring an in-store bakery, the famous cheese barge, and click and collect facilities.
Overall, the development is expected to create 150 new full and part-time jobs, providing a welcome boost to local employment. New pedestrian and cycle links are also planned to better connect the retail area with Burton town centre.
Balancing Growth with Town Centre Concerns
While the project promises economic benefits, it has not been without its concerns. A report commissioned by the applicant estimated that the new shopping area could result in a 43 per cent trade diversion from existing non-food retailers in Burton town centre.
Planning officers concluded that, given the current good performance of the town centre, this impact would not be substantial. However, Councillor Mick Huckerby voiced apprehension, stating, "43 per cent of trade lost to those existing currently open shops... the economy of Burton is in a quite fragile state."
Despite these concerns, the committee was persuaded by the arguments for sustainable development. Planning agent Christopher Timothy told the committee that the proposal would secure a "high quality retail, leisure and community development" and deliver significant economic benefits through both construction and increased local spending.
The approved plans also include community-focused amenities such as a new sports pitch and a vegetable patch, adding a green and recreational dimension to the commercial development.
