Shops and flats plan for former car park given the green light
KIMBERLEY RESIDENTS ARE HOPING FOR ‘ANYTHING DIFFERENT’ FOR THE TOWN
PLANS to build shops at a former car park in Kimberley have been approved and residents say they are hopeful the development will bring variety to the town.
Two shops and six apartments will be built in Main Street, next to Kimberley Library, after being given the green light by Broxtowe Borough Council.
The former church car park will now see the construction of a threestorey building with the upper floors hosting one-bedroom apartments.
Council documents state that “infilling this gap” in Kimberley’s high street would be “likely be a positive step” for the town.
It is not yet known which shops will be opened in the two retail units.
Now, residents have had their say on what they would like to see in Kimberley.
Chloe Henshaw, 23, cashier, who lives in Kimberley, said: “I’d like more beauty shops. “There’s not really [a lot here]. “I think more pubs as well – there’s only a few food-wise.
“It could be suitable [for six flats], it just means the area will be more busier. It could be all right.”
Social worker Jane Watt, 64, who also lives in Kimberley, said: “I know things have to improve and move on.
“We’ve got plenty of cafes and things like that. Maybe shoe shops.
“I think because supermarkets do such a lot it’s taking away a lot of custom. This road used to be covered with shops and be a busy town.
“It’s a popular place – people do need housing and flats.
“I’m a bit old school. I like to keep things as it is – I don’t mind old buildings being used but to add on to it I’m not a fan.
“It seems a shame that everything’s been taken up with more housing and shops.”
There is no parking on-site for residents but the application states that there is cycle parking available as well as car parks in the Kimberley area.
The application states that solar panels on the roof of the new build would “provide environmentally friendly power for the proposal”.
Tom Beard, 25, works at a funeral home and also lives in Kimberley.
He said: “I think it’s a private car park right now so I think it will be better. It depends on the type of shop – anything different would be nice. A micro pub or a florist.
“It’s just a car park right now so puts it to better use.”
The application by Mr Z Malik was granted permission subject to five conditions.