Seeking to split store into four
0:00am Fri Apr 17, 2009
It is thought that splitting Newark’s empty Woolworths store into four units will make it easier to let. - 070109JT1-1
The owners of Newark’s only retail park are committed to bringing jobs back to the town.
Northgate Retail Park’s largest store has been empty since December when Woolworths closed with the loss of 110 jobs.
Limes Developments Ltd, of Lincoln, are planning to divide the 46,000sq ft store into four units to attract retailers.
A director of Limes Developments, Mr Marcus Jolly, said the retail park, which he described as a gateway to Newark, was their top priority.
“We are prepared to do anything we can to make it work and get jobs back,” he said.
The plans, submitted to Newark and Sherwood District Council, include the removal of the store’s front lobby and the garden centre at the rear.
Instead new glazed entrances will be installed to match the TK Maxx store next door.
“We are looking to update it and make it look the best it possibly can,” Mr Jolly said.
The amount of retail space will not change, however, as a mezzanine level covering more than half the area of each unit is planned.
Mr Jolly said they wanted to complete the work and fill the units by October at the latest so the shops could open by Christmas.
He said they were confident of bringing in retailers despite the difficult financial climate.
It is thought four smaller units will be easier to fill rather than one large one. The units would range from 8,000 to 10,000sq ft.
Mr Jolly said they were talking to retailers but did not have any agreements yet.
Limes Developments originally developed the retail park about ten years ago. It includes Homebase and Currys, as well as TK Maxx.
Mr Jolly said TK Maxx was a big draw for Newark and wanted to ensure it stayed despite a decrease in the number of people visiting the shop since Woolworths closed.
