Ashton Arcades extension wins planning consent
Published: 22 June, 2006
Tameside Council has given the green light this week to a £40m expansion programme for the Arcades shopping centre in Ashton-under-Lyne. Apollo Ashton LP's plans include the first major department store for Ashton and proposals for a new public transport interchange. Target opening for the new extension is Autumn 2009.
Now that outline planning consent has been granted, detailed work will commence on the development, which more than doubles the retail space at the centre. It will also see the creation of a modern bus station to improve transport links for visitors arriving by bus and ultimately Metrolink.
Rob Cossey of Apollo's development partner Hark Retail believes that the plans will be a real boost for Ashton. He said: "Together with the arrival of Ikea, the expansion of Ashton Arcades will enhance the economic vitality and future prosperity of the town and the Arcades will potentially be one of the UK's top 100 shopping venues."
