Changes to Preston Tithebarn Partnership announced

Posted 16 October 2009 at 09:49

Changes to Preston Tithebarn Partnership announced
16 October 2009

Following the decision of joint-venture partner Grosvenor to withdraw from the Preston Tithebarn scheme, Lend Lease is continuing to work with Preston City Council.

John Irvine, Executive Director for Development at Grosvenor said:

“Following a strategic review Grosvenor is refocusing its development activity on building a larger portfolio of medium-sized, retail, residential, and mixed-used projects rather than concentrating on a few large, long-term, city centre regeneration schemes.

“We were determined to see the Tithebarn scheme through to planning consent, which was approved recently, and we wish Lend Lease and Preston City Council every success with the project.”

Speaking on behalf of the Preston Tithebarn Partnership, Richard Coppell of Lend Lease said:

“We wish to continue working with Preston City Council and believe in the potential of both Preston and the Tithebarn scheme. Our next step will be to respond to the recent Government call in.”

In a joint statement, the Council’s Group Leaders Councillor Ken Hudson, Leader of the Council (Conservative), Councillor John Collins (Labour) and Councillor Danny Gallagher (Liberal Democrat) said:

“Although we are naturally disappointed with Grosvenor’s decision we understand their reasons. We are pleased that Lend Lease are still on board and are looking forward to working with them to bring Tithebarn to fruition. Our first task is to deal with the challenges of the call in procedure.”

Background notes

The Preston Tithebarn Regeneration Area project aims to create a 21st century city centre for Preston offering new, high quality living, working, entertainment and shopping facilities.

The proposed scheme includes 1.5million sq ft of new shopping incorporating two major department stores plus around 100 other new shops. The proposals include a range of bars and restaurants, a 9-screen cinema, new and refurbished markets, approximately 500 new homes and 2,700 new car parking spaces. The masterplan outlines plans for enhanced public realm including public art, as well as a new bus station to serve the city.