Preston Tithebarn decision overturned
Published: 23 November, 2010
Lend Lease’s 1.5m-sq ft Tithebarn project given the go-ahead
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles has overturned the planning inspector’s recommendation and granted planning permission for Lend Leases 1.5m-sq ft Tithebarn project in Preston.
In his decision letter Pickles said: “Overall, having weighed up all of the relevant considerations, the Secretary of State considers that transportation issues are not the determining factor in this case. He concludes that the possibility of significant traffic congestion in Preston, and the associated conflict with the development plan and national policy, is outweighed by the clear and significant economic, environmental and regeneration benefits of the proposal.”
Preston Tithebarn will deliver a 1.5million-sq ft retail and leisure destination right in the centre of the city. Anchored by a 230,000-sq ft John Lewis and a 150,00-sq ft M&S store, Preston Tithebarn will reinvigorate the city centre with over 100 new retail outlets, new restaurants and coffee shops plus a new multi-screen cinema.
The development will also create new living space in the heart of the city and the Guild Arcade will be refurbished and fully integrated into the new development.
In addition, Preston Tithebarn will provide additional town centre parking with over 2,700 spaces, and public transport links will be improved with a new bus station.
