Work begins to redevelop shops (From Gazette & Herald)

Work begins to redevelop shops

WORK has begun at three sites in Malton to create larger, modern shop units in a bid to attract high-profile national chains and 'quality retailers' to the town.

The redevelopment work, which will cost the landowner, the Fitzwilliam Estate, more than £500,000, is taking place at 42 Wheelgate, 11-13 Wheelgate, and on the Yorkersgate site previously occupied by Travis Perkins.

Estate manager Roddy Bushell said: "Prospective retailers regularly tell us they need larger shop units before they will locate in Malton. By carrying out this work, we aim to make Malton more attractive to new businesses."

As yet, no leases have been signed, but work is due to be completed on the Wheelgate sites by March 2004. The estate is looking to target high street fashion or quality sports stores, or possibly even a car accessories retailer.

However, old faces may return to 42 Wheelgate, which was badly damaged by fire in November last year. Dales Greengrocers, which previously occupied the shop, has been given first refusal on the new unit. The building will create a separate office on the first and second floors of the premises.

Mr Dale said: "Yes we're probably going back in - it will be new and improved - slightly longer than it was before but it will still be the same old greengrocers people are used to. We won't be moving back until the spring. I would like to thank everyone who has supported us since the fire."

At 11-13 Wheelgate, two shop units, previously a dry cleaner's and electrical shop, will be combined into one larger retail unit.

On Yorkersgate, the first stage, which is now underway, is to refurbish the exterior.

Fitzwilliam Estates has chosen a preferred developer, The Yorkshire Property Company, for the former Travis Perkins site. The research stage is complete and work on the redesign of the site is now underway and will include retail, residential and office use.

Roddy Bushell, estate manager at Fitzwilliam (Malton) Estates says: "The estate's investment in the building work is a positive step for Malton. These are complicated and sensitive sites. Whilst it has taken many months to get to this position, I am pleased that work has now begun.

"I am also delighted that the estate has been able to appoint local contractors to carry out all the necessary building and redevelopment work - putting a significant amount of money back into the local economy.

"The investment signals the estate's continued commitment to the town and its vitality. It also confirms that we are still working hard to attract new businesses into Malton town centre - all of whom demand ever higher standards of accommodation."

Updated: 09:36 Wednesday, October 29, 2003