Access will be maintained for residents and dismounted cyclists at all times. “Although these works are not being carried out by Shropshire County Council, we have been working with EON to co-ordinate the scheme to minimise disruption as much as possible,” said Councillor John Everall, the Shirehall cabinet member for the environment and sustainability.
“We appreciate there are many roadworks around Bridgnorth at the moment – however this work needs to be carried out now in order for the store to open in time for Christmas,” he added.
“It is essential to get this supply for the new M & S store to open as it will be a great attraction to Low Town and Bridgnorth,” said Councillor John Hurst-Knight, Bridgnorth’s West ward councillor.
Plans had been announced for an early autumn opening at the former Handyman House building in St John’s Street, but M & S have confirmed a “slight” delay.
“The new Simply Food store is going ahead as planned and will open before the end of the year,” said an M & S spokeswoman. “The opening has been put back slightly due to some minor changes agreed with the developer,” she added.
She said she was unable to give any exact date for the official opening, when there will be champagne for customers and £1,000 worth of shopping vouchers up for grabs. And she declined to comment on widespread rumours that some clothes and fashions could also be for sale.
“We do not yet have details of the exact product range,” said the spokeswoman.
A total of 45 people – 18 full-time and 27 part-time – will be employed in the two-storey building, which includes a mezzanine floor.
The Subway sandwich chain has now submitted plans to the district council for the former South Staffs Building Society building in the High Street. Subway is seeking planning permission and listed building consent to carry out alterations .
