Rokeby Developments - Retail Development - Hexham, Hexham Retail Renaissance On Track

Date: 17 Sep 2007

Rokeby Developments advised by King Sturge has been selected by Network Rail as preferred developer for the Station Goods Yard site at Hexham, Northumberland.

The site, which is situated adjacent to Hexham Railway Station, fronts Station Road and comprises approximately 4.25 acres including adjoining land controlled by Rokeby.

The proposal is to develop the site for non-food retail use including a 25,000 sq ft DIY store and a 10,000 sq ft associated garden centre, subject to planning permission. The strategic site has had a long redevelopment history. Previous development proposals include those of Centros Miller in the late 90's and more recently Safeway's.

Rokeby Developments is a specialist in brownfield rejuvenation. Since its formation in 1995 it has been involved in a broad range of developments in the North East, particularly messy regeneration projects undertaken alongside local authorities and private sector partners.

Head of station development at Network Rail Stephen Brimfield said: "This deal marks an exciting new chapter in the rejuvenation of Hexham. It allows us to develop new car parking facilities, a new entrance to the north of the station and a new maintenance depot. Rokeby has carved out a strong niche in North Eastern regeneration and as a local company is a fitting partner."

Adrian Goodall, director at Rokeby Developments said: "Rokeby have been tracking the site for over six years and we welcome the opportunity to work with Network Rail and Tynedale District Council to deliver a scheme which will be an asset to the town and the Tyne Valley."

Hexham's retail offer is undergoing a renaissance with lifestyle retailers such as Fat Face, Millets and Café Nero locating on the high street, Waitrose coming into the town and Marks and Spencer now rumoured to be taking over the Co-op.

King Sturge partner Jonathan Sykes who advised Rokeby said: "The scheme will complement the existing town centre retail offer and will help protect against leakage of retail expenditure to Newcastle city centre and the Metro Centre. We have already received strong demand from potential occupiers especially from DIY retailers". Knight Frank advised Network Rail.

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