Tesco sign up for Developments £50m mixed use scheme in Fort William
18.08.11 Company: Miller Developments
Miller Developments has today announced that Tesco will be the supermarket operator for its £50m mixed use project in Fort William.
The leading UK retailer will become the first occupier at the site at Blar Mhor/Corpach Moss, and will be the catalyst for the commencement of infrastructure works that will see significant improvements being made to the Lochybridge junction, as well as service roads for other uses on the site. This significant signing marks the first phase of the development which will see an initial investment of £15m.
Gloria Coats, Corporate Affairs Manager for Tesco said: “We are delighted for the opportunity to invest in Fort William with a new Tesco environmental store. The new store will bring increased choice and value for money for our customers and create hundreds of jobs for local people. We are currently working with Miller Developments on the detailed design and will shortly be bringing forward plans so we can deliver this investment.”
David Milloy, Joint Managing Director, Miller Developments, added: “I am very pleased to be able to announce Tesco as the foodstore operator. We have worked closely with the Highland Council and the local community to obtain planning consent which will see the delivery of this much needed mixed use development in Fort William.
“Throughout our consultations with the community we have paid great attention to feedback and comments and as a result the infrastructure works, will radically improve the Lochybridge junction which was of major concern.
”Another key point made was the lack of basic shopping provision which results in long car journeys to either Glasgow or Inverness. This issue in particular will be addressed, in turn delivering wider environmental benefits through shorter car journeys.”
Fort William Councillor Donald Cameron, speaking on behalf of his six Lochaber colleagues, added: “It is wonderful news that Tesco has signed up to the scheme at Blar Mhor. The investment that is being made to bring this development to fruition will deliver both economic and social benefits. The job creation and retail provision should result in a healthy employment market and reinvestment into the economy by shoppers who will be encouraged to shop locally. This development will act as a catalyst for the strategic expansion of a greater Fort William.”
Miller Developments is currently in discussion with a number of retail and leisure operators for the remaining space.
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