A DECISION on whether to approve a large extension to the Mall at Cribbs Causeway has been deferred after new information was put forward.

The Bristol Alliance, who are behind the re-development of the Broadmead area in Bristol and are against the Mall development, fear that city centre stores will close if the expansion goes ahead.

Members of South Gloucestershire Council's development control (west) committee, who met to consider the application at Turnberrie's Community Centre in Thornbury last Thursday, voted unanimously to defer the decision to a later date to allow the opportunity to consider the new information.

 

Along with the outline to expand the shopping centre, the proposed plans for the Mall include a new events plaza, new hotel and residential properties.

The plans also include an extensive expansion of the transportation system in the area with a new multi-storey car park, a brand new bus station and new pedestrian and cycle links, including a bridge over Merlin Road.

It is believed that the new development will create over 3,000 construction jobs and a further 3,750 permanent roles.

Speaking at the meeting, Hugh Jones of Turley, agents for Bristol Alliance, said that the potential development in Cribbs Causeway would “damage the City Centre, and deter interest away from the redevelopment of Broadmead.”

He added: “It is naive to think that both areas will flourish if the plans go ahead. City stores will inevitably close as the chains look to relocate to Cribbs Causeway.”

Zoe Willcox, service director of Bristol City Council said: “This development will represent a harmful shift away from shopping in Bristol City Centre. 

“Spending will be also diverted fully away from town centres.”

Representing the application, Philip Vaughan, director of development and construction at M&G Real Estate, part owners of The Mall defended the proposals.

He said: “We feel it will make the West of England one of the best areas for shopping in the whole of the UK.

“These improvements represent a capital investment of over £300 million into the local community.

“We wish to continue working with the council and the many stakeholders in Cribbs Causeway to ensure the benefits of the scheme are achieved.”