Reality check over ‘Tescoville’

Welshpool planners have called for a touch of realism following a week rife with rumours of a retail bonanza for the multi-million pound Tesco development, tagged locally as ‘Tescoville’.

 

Shoppers were cock-a-hoop at the weekend after it was ‘leaked’ that retail giants like Next and Halfords were joining Tesco on the edge of the town centre.

 

But, as Tesco postpone their opening date to March 14, planners have reiterated that no-one has signed up for the additional retail units yet and believe the current economic climate could mean it will be some time before anyone does.

 

“These are volatile economic times so every business is being cautious at the moment,” said Town Clerk Robert Robinson. “Negotiations are ongoing with a number of national retailers but with the marketplace as it is, it could be some time before we have any confirmation.”

 

Both Next and Halfords confirmed to mywelshpool that they have no plans for a Welshpool opening at the moment while Argos, Wilkinson, Peacocks and New Look have remained tight lipped after being contacted by us. Tesco too have so far not commented on the additional retail spaces.

 

However, pub chain Marston’s have submitted their plans for a restaurant pub to Powys County Council ahead of a proposed hospitality zone, with Travelodge expected to follow with a budget hotel.

 

Mr Robinson said that co-ordination meetings between the Town Council, Powys County Council, developers and Tesco will continue in the coming weeks to monitor progress closely and to keep Welshpool residents informed of progress.