NewRiver ‘engaging positively with proposed retailers’ for Burgess Hill town centre redevelopment

This week, the developer confirmed it had restarted discussions with proposed tenants, retailers and existing occupiers, many of whom, it says, have experienced challenging trading across the UK during the first lockdown.

“We remain committed to Burgess Hill and the delivery of this scheme, that we firmly believe will create a vibrant place with a different offer for its community,” said director Justin Thomas.

“Alongside our ongoing conversations with proposed retailers and some new operators, we will be working on mapping out the next steps of the programme so that we can keep the community regularly updated, as details of the programme continue to be finalised.”

Mid Sussex District Council approved amended plans for NewRiver’s £65million regeneration of Burgess Hill town centre on September 3.

Members of the planning committee voted unanimously to approve the redevelopment of The Martlets shopping centre to include 172 flats, a ten-screen cinema, bowling alley, gym and hotel.

The decision came after consultation with residents and businesses that helped to shape the proposals, including a revised layout of the library to accommodate a Changing Places toilet.

The redevelopment of the site has been dragging on since 2016, when NewRiver was originally given permission for a £65million project.

This latest and revised application included a number of significant changes in response to changes in the retail sector – with more focus on leisure facilities.

Mr Thomas said: “The redevelopment intends to revitalise the town centre, creating a vibrant and sustainable destination that will meet the future needs of the local community.

“Town centres nationally have faced a period of unprecedented change over the last few years. These challenges have been magnified due to Covid-19, now to be further exacerbated by the announcement of a second lockdown.

“There continues to be an ongoing shift in retail, and demand for retail space in town centres, however NewRiver continues discussions with proposed retailers for the Martlets redevelopment scheme as they navigate this difficult time.

“Previous works to the town, such as the completion of the new library, have set the scene for the regeneration, and NewRiver will continue to provide updates to the local community.

“NewRiver would like to thank the local community for their patience as discussions continue.”