A North Yorkshire seaside town is set for a major shot in the arm with plans afoot for a new 2,700sqm retail park. The new ‘retail destination’ could be built in Scarborough and come with a supermarket, cafes, a petrol station, and a tanning salon.
The plans, which include a 2,700sqm supermarket, a drive-through, pharmacies, and restaurants have been proposed by Cliff Court Developments Ltd. A full planning application has been submitted for the extension of the current park and ride facility, the creation of two new roundabouts, and the construction of an internal access road. The outline plans – which would see more detailed proposals submitted after approval – include a wide range of potential businesses and services.
New Scarborough Retail Park, Filey Road. Illustrative Masterplan. (Image: -)
« Strong interest » has already been expressed by potential occupiers, but the « end operators have not yet been selected, and therefore the applicant seeks permission for a range of uses to provide maximum flexibility and to enable the development to respond to changing market conditions, » according to Lichfields, the agent for the application.
Nevertheless, Scarborough Town Council (STC) has already raised concerns regarding the development.
Cllr William Stuart « expressed serious concerns about the damaging effects out-of-town developments can have on the footfall and viability of our town centre » at STC’s community and place committee meeting on Tuesday, March 31.
« Scarborough town centre is a vital asset to our community, not just for the people of Scarborough but for the surrounding areas. This site, initially suggested for a hotel and drive-thru food development, has now evolved into an alternative town centre.
« What worries me further is the developer’s vagueness about the project’s true scope. As it stands, the proposal could pave the way for a full out-of-town retail park, with little regard for the long-term impact on our town centre. »
If approved, the developer would have permission to use commercial units for shops, cafes and restaurants, medical and health services, a tanning shop, and a hot food takeaway. »
« The site’s location adjacent to the existing park and ride facility presents a unique and compelling opportunity to deliver a mixed-use commercial and retail development that is intrinsically linked to sustainable travel patterns, » the submitted plans state.
The application notes that the park and ride benefits from the No. 165 bus service, offering connections to Scarborough town centre with departures every 20 minutes, seven days weekly, from April through November.
« Discussions will be held with NYC and the public transport operator to extend the service all year round, along with extending or diverting other local bus services into the park and ride site. »
The application states: »The proposed commercial development will significantly improve the range, accessibility and availability of local shops, services and facilities to local residents and tourists. Indeed, there is currently a shortage of such facilities in this area, as identified by local residents during the pre-application public engagement. »
North Yorkshire Council has yet to announce a date for ruling on the proposals, which remain open to submissions from members of the public.
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