AN INTERNATIONALLY recognised regeneration and property consultancy has been chosen to help drive forward the transformation of the Riverside Shopping Centre site in Evesham.
Wychavon District Council has selected the London-based company, Savills, as its commercial partner following a competitive bidding and evaluation process.
Its role will be to help shape the vision for the redevelopment of the site and attract investment by securing the right partner to deliver the proposed mixed-use scheme.
The announcement was made at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum, where the Riverside site was being promoted to developers.
Savills brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of involvement with high-profile regeneration projects similar to the one proposed for Evesham, including the landmark Lexicon development in Bracknell.
Leader of Wychavon, Coun Richard Morris, said: “Appointing a commercial partner of Savills’ calibre is another major step forward for the Riverside regeneration project and underlines the scale of the opportunity in Evesham.
“The fact a globally-recognised consultancy with such a strong track record in regeneration wants to be involved in this project shows the confidence there is in the potential of what we’re planning for the Riverside.”
Savills’ specialists also have vast experience with market town and heritage-led regeneration, which will complement the authority’s ambition to reconnect the town centre with Evesham’s heritage assets.
Their use of market research and insights will also ensure the scheme is designed to reflect changes in shopping habits, sustainability and modern lifestyles.
Michael Maguire, development director at Savills in the West Midlands, said: “Wychavon District Council’s acquisition of the Riverside Shopping Centre creates a unique opportunity to bring forward a transformational, mixed-use redevelopment at the heart of Evesham Town Centre.
“Savills has been appointed to take this opportunity to the market, seeking either a developer or a delivery partner with the vision and capability to unlock the site’s full potential.
“Backed by the council’s significant investment and clear commitment to regeneration, Riverside offers the chance to deliver a high-quality mixed-use scheme that redefines this important riverside location, increases town centre living and acts as a catalyst for wider economic renewal across Evesham.”
Savills also has experience working with Homes England, a key partner that part-funded Wychavon’s purchase of the Riverside Shopping Centre site.
Coun Emma Kearsey, Wychavon’s executive board member for planning, infrastructure and urban design, added: “Our ambition is not to replace a shopping centre, but to create a vibrant mixed-use development that reconnects the town centre with the river, supports businesses, increases town centre living and reflects Evesham’s character and heritage.
“The expertise Savills offers will be crucial in helping us deliver that vision.”
The council remains on track to submit the demolition application for the Riverside by the end of May.
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/riverside for more information and the latest updates.
