Estate sets sights on schemes to boost towns (From Gazette & Herald)

Estate sets sights on schemes to boost towns

A BOUYANT outlook for 2003 has been forecast for Malton and Norton by one of the area's biggest property and landowners, the Fitzwilliam (Malton) Estates.

Three major schemes are on the drawing board by the estate which will play a significant part in boosting Malton's economy, says Roddy Bushell, the estate manager.

"We are currently working on several projects that will enhance the economic vitality of Malton town centre," he said.

The interior of the 17th century York House is to be restored and internal changes made in the 1960s are to be removed.

Work is due to start in the next few weeks and one of the country's leading conservation designers, Martin Stancliffe Architects of York, has been appointed to manage the transformation of the imposing building back to a traditional manor house, which will then be let as a prestige office.

Work has already started on creating a new retail unit at 11-13 Wheelgate, combining the interior space of both shops into one larger unit.

"It is hoped that the new unit will be attractive to a national high street retailer and act as a means of further enhancing the attractiveness of shopping in Malton," said Mr Bushell.

Plans are also being prepared to renovate the former Travis Perkins buildings in Yorkersgate into a mix of retail, office and residential use.

"This will be a major redevelopment opportunity for the town and the estate is now assessing expressions of interest and ideas put forward by potential users," he said.

"There are many projects now underway or planned for the year ahead that will have a positive impact on the appearance, vitality and long-term prosperity of Malton and Norton. While much hard work lies ahead, and the economic outlook continues to be uncertain, there are definite grounds for optimism among businesses and residents in the two towns," said Mr Bushell.

He welcomed news that there is to be an action plan published for the towns by the Malton and Norton Area Partnership.

"This has a clear set of key objectives which the estate supports - ranging from stimulating new economic activity to improving the performance of town centre businesses, to enhancing the historic, cultural and natural assets of the area."

Mr Bushell said the plan's objectives would enable progress to be assessed on a regular basis.

He added: "It also gives businesses and other local organisations the confidence to initiate activity that will help support these aims.

"The work of Peter Mudge, the town marketing manager, will also play an increasing role in the regeneration of the town centres."

Ryedale District Council's recent decision to produce and carry out a regeneration strategy for Malton and Norton concentrating on the redevelopment of brownfield sites and enhancement of key areas is to be welcomed, added Mr Bushell.

"Having clear objectives combined with a positive strategy is the first essential step forward.

"Several redevelopment sites have been pin-pointed by the council, which could ultimately remove several eyesore sites from the towns and create new jobs, affordable housing and leisure facilities."

Updated: 10:47 Wednesday, January 08, 2003