B&Q gets planning permission for new store

A B&Q DIY store on the outskirts of Bedford could be a reality in 12 months’ time after the council gave planning permission for building works to begin.

Bedford Borough Council approved the £18.5 million development plans for the superstore, including office units and a new car dealership, to be developed on land east of the road to Ampthill adjacent to Kempston Interchange Retail Park at a meeting of the planning committee on Monday night.

Developers claim that Bedford is the largest town in the country to currently not have a B&Q but if work begins in the near future, the DIY store could be finished within a year bringing around 150 new jobs to the area.

A new development would also see existing pedestrian and cycle routes extended in order to link in with the site and a new footway from the store to the existing bus stop on Polo Field Way.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said: "Alongside the new Waitrose store opening later this year, this is another development which is great news for the local economy, and will be welcomed by local shoppers. The commitment of major stores also helps attract other businesses and we will continue to work to encourage the investment and jobs in Bedford.”

Source : Bedfordshire News
www.bedfordshire-news.co.uk/News/DIY-group-gets-planning-permission-for-new-store-30032012.htm