North Swindon MP, Justin Tomlinson, and Priory Vale councillor, Toby Elliott, have spoken of their delight at British Land’s plans for investment in the Northern Orbital Shopping Park.
Plans for the changes are being submitted to Swindon Borough Council in November and should go before the Planning Committee in February. Site owners British Land propose to:
- improve and enhance pedestrian areas and crossing points
- improve the flow of pedestrians and cars around the shopping centre
- introduce new street furniture including seating and litter bins
- provide new toilets including baby changing facilities
- modernise the car park to include enlarged parking bays
- add a customer services centre and an ATM
- create a new road access for delivery lorries
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “We’ve working very closely with British Land and have had a number of meetings to develop their ideas. They recognise the importance of the Orbital Shopping Park to the communities across North Swindon and we’re really pleased they are committing to the refurbishment. It’s a win-win for the local community. We recognise the importance of the play park to parents and we were particularly keen that they look at how they could improve and expand the facilities right at the centre of the site. Parents will be able to enjoy their coffee and cake from the new Costa close by and watch their children enjoying themselves.”
Cllr. Toby Elliott said: “I am thrilled to see British Land recommitting to the Orbital Shopping Park; the shops and services are vital to the local community and it is really welcome that they are investing heavily into this site to bring it up to date.”
James Honeyman for Orbital Shopping Park’s owner British Land, said: “These plans demonstrate our continued investment in Swindon which will realise the Orbital’s full potential. We are committed to enhancing the park's environment so that spending time here will be an even better experience for our customers.”
A one day public consultation will be held from 7pm on 25 November, in the North Swindon Library for people to find out more about the plans and give feedback. A new branch of Costa Coffee at the park will open at 4pm on 25 November.
