The much anticipated redevelopment plans for intu Milton Keynes have been given the green light by planners.
intu, the owner, developer and manager of many of the UK’s prime regional shopping centres, submitted its planning application in May this year. Last night, Milton Keynes Council gave the plans its approval.
The scheme, which will be one of the most significant retail and leisure development projects that Central Milton Keynes has seen in over a decade, will include a new dining quarter over two levels and a five-screen boutique cinema.
Designed by 3DReid, the redevelopment will add a further 100,000 sq ft to the prime 430,000 sq ft shopping centre, which has annual footfall of 16 million and boasts top retail brands such as Apple, Debenhams, H&M, Hugo Boss, Superdry and Zara.
Martin Breeden, regional director of intu, said, “We’re delighted that our proposals have been approved. intu Milton Keynes is already the premium fashion pitch in the city and these plans will strengthen its position, creating a contemporary destination for customers to shop, eat, relax and socialise. We’ve had some good interest in the scheme as brands recognise the opportunity that Milton Keynes provides.”
intu’s proposals are in line with Central Milton Keynes’ continuing growth ambitions as set out within the local Neighbourhood Development Plan. This plan calls for an expanded and diversified retail offer in the city centre, a greater mix of dining and leisure in the evening as well as an emerging role as the centre of a prosperous and growing region of the country.
To achieve this, intu’s plans encompass the space in and around Oak Court and Midsummer Boulevard which will be remodelled to provide a welcoming environment and enhanced ambience.
Outside, new landscaped areas and public space will also provide a relaxing area for local workers and families throughout the day. The Boulevard will be used for community events and entertainment, keeping intu Milton Keynes at the heart of the community.
The proposed work at intu Milton Keynes is part of a £1.5bn development pipeline in the UK over the next 10 years by intu.