Former MEB site could be revamped - The Evesham Observer

Former MEB site could be revamped

Evesham Editorial 16th May, 2014 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

ONE OF Britain’s fastest growing discount retailers could open its doors in Evesham and breathe new life into the former MEB site on Worcester Road.

B&M Homestores, the company behind the successful B&M Bargains chain, are holding a public consultation on Tuesday (May 20) at Evesham Town Hall.

The consultation is in preparation for a planning application and members of the development team will be on hand to answer any questions.

Organised by planning consultants DPP on behalf of their clients, John Radcliffe and Sons, the showcase will reveal the proposals to convert the MEB Electricity Depot on Worcester Road.




Although at an early stage, the current plans will see the existing buildings demolished and a 2,300 square metre retail until, garden centre and car parking created.

B&M Bargains currently boast stores in Redditch and a recently opened addition in the St Martin’s Quarter in Worcester.


Should an application be submitted and approved, the development would mean the Worcester Road would have attracted yet another retail giant.

The vital link out of town already boasts a mammoth Tesco superstore and the Evesham Shopping Park which includes the likes of Argos, Boots and the Marks and Spencer Simply Food store.

Kim Dunn, owner of Bonk and chair of Real Evesham told the Observer B&M’s potential arrival could be a positive for the town.

“I think it’s a good idea but it will have to be a really special store to compete with the big names that are already up there.” she said.

“Anything promoting Evesham and a big name like B&M looking at the town has to be a positive.”

The issue was discussed at the latest meeting of the Vale of Evesham Commerce and Tourism Association (VECTA) on Wednesday (May 14).

VECTA Chairman Tony Rowland told the Observer: “The argument being made is there is not a space big enough to put them in the town centre.”

“The downside is that its yet another retailer not in the town centre itself.

“Evesham town centre is going through an evolution like many town centres across the UK.

“If a retailer wants to come to the town, it creates employment and another retail offering to increase variety.

Shoppers and residents are invited to the showcase between 1pm and 6pm on Tuesday (May 20) to air their views.

* What do you think? E-mail [email protected] or leave us a message at www.facebook.com/EveshamObs or @EveshamObserver on Twitter.

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Evesham Observer.

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.

Subscribe

Receive a weekly update to your inbox by signing up to our weekly newsletter.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Evesham Observer newspaper.