Property News - Welsh leisure complex gets the go-ahead

Merthyr Tydfil Borough Council has granted Hammerson planning permission for a 270,000 sq ft (25,000 sq m) retail park, fronting the A470 in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales.

Hammerson acquired an option to purchase the 22-acre (9-ha) site when it bought the Grantchester portfolio last year, and it will now exercise the option, with a view to beginning construction in autumn 2003. The scheme will provide nine units, including a health club, three catering outlets and 1,000 car parking spaces.

Heads of terms have already been agreed with B&Q Warehouse, JJB Sports, Matalan, Comet, Currys, Brantano, McDonald's and Pizza Hut. Completion is due in September 2004.

The letting agent for the scheme is EJ Hales.