NEXT are trying again to get a fashion store at Cuckoo Bridge in Dumfries – and this time they could finally be lucky.
For planners are backing the £2 million bid, which would create 35 jobs.
And they are advising councillors to vary the conditions on what can be sold at the retail park, to allow the change at unit four.
Permission is being sought by New River Retail, who own Cuckoo Bridge, “to facilitate the occupation by Next”, who already run a click and collect pod nearby.
Current restrictions, granted in 2000, mean only bulky goods can be sold there to avoid a detrimental impact on the town centre.
However, in a report for next week’s meeting, case officer Graham Smith acknowledges times have changed.
He said: “Since the original planning permission was granted some 25 years ago, there have been a considerable number of applications at the retail park, most seeking to relax the primary bulky goods retail restriction. This reflects wider trends in the sector with bulky goods operators struggling to adapt to changing market conditions.”
He flags up the applicants’ Planning and Retail Statement which argues that bringing in Next would retain expenditure in Dumfries and
improve choice for local consumers.
And he reveals that ten other sites were considered around the town but all ruled out for varying reasons, including the former Debenhams, former Original Factory Shop and the Loreburne Centre.
Meanwhile, an independent consultant has weighed up the application for the council.
Their view is that it’s the best site and would strengthen Dumfries as a shopping destination.
The consultant further remarks there have been ‘significant changes’ in retail in Dumfries over the past decade, with the closure of many retailers.
And: “The arrival of Next would help replace that loss and is described as improving the overall quality of the retail offer in Dumfries.
“The consultant is in agreement that the proposed development would not threaten the vitality and viability of Dumfries town centre,” writes Mr Smith. “The retail consultant has both acknowledged the decline of demand for bulky goods but also that if this application were to be refused, Next would be unlikely in the circumstances to move to Dumfries at all.”
The final decision will be made by members of the planning applications committee on Wednesday.
(The Caledonia Park outlet pictured for illustration)
