Go-ahead for £60 Mil. Hatfield town centre regeneration

An unanimous committee resolution to grant detailed planning approval marks a significant stage in the £60 million scheme to regenerate Hatfield Town Centre, which St Modwen Developments Ltd plans to carry out on behalf of Welwyn Hatfield Council and English Partnerships.

A new town centre including 45 shops, cafes and restaurants, a 532-space multi-storey car park and a library, together with an indoor market hall, leisure and community facilities, a bus interchange and 162 residential units make up the scheme.

The resolution is a step in the development process which can now move on to highway and site assembly issues which could be resolved to allow a start on site in early 2006.

Nick Kay, of St Modwen, said: “The Planning Committee unanimously resolved to grant planning consent. We already have offers from anchor retailers and a contract for us to deliver the apartments to a residential developer is in solicitors hands.”

Coun, Russell Le Page, Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Council, said: “Hatfield Town Centre is in desperate need of redevelopment and regeneration. This planning consent means that the vision of a thriving and viable town centre with attractive open public spaces and good shops is a step closer. Hatfield has an exciting future and the Council, together with St Modwen Developments Ltd and English Partnerships is making it happen.”

For further information contact Nick Kay on 020 7499 5666.

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121-236-7771)