Credentials of £85m site have been proven, says developer
The developer behind the controversial £85m Parkgate scheme in Shirley has said it is "delighted" that its appeal to proceed with the project was successful.
Development company Shirley Advance was given the green light to forge ahead with the scheme, which comprises 20 retail outlets, an ASDA superstore and more than 150 homes.
It is estimated that the development will create up to 800 jobs.
Robert Birch of Shirley Advance said: "We are really pleased with the appeal decision. We can now move forward towards making it a reality. This scheme will bring much needed investment and new facilities to the town. Our proposals have now been endorsed by two separate planning inspectors. The planning credentials of Parkgate have, once again, been proven beyond all doubt.
"Whilst we have been waiting for this decision and, in anticipation of a positive result, we have been busy making sure that we are able to get started as soon as possible. We will now pull everything together with a view to starting on site in early 2012."
Solihull Council gave the go-ahead to the scheme, with 51 conditions in place.
As part of the planning agreement, Shirley Park will receive a refurbishment boost worth £500,000, which will be paid for by the developer.
The scheme had been twice rejected previously by Solihull Council on parking grounds.
