Still no decision on future of former Debenhams store

A DECISION is still to be made on the future of the former Debenham’s store in Nuneaton town centre.

In May last year amended plans were submitted for the former department store site in Bridge Street.

This move was made following criticism of the initial plans, mainly due to the grey materials being proposed for 73 apartments and new retail space. The amended plans also included more public space provided within the huge site.

Despite changes being made to the plan, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council said that the final decision has yet to be made about the planning application. This is because of an outstanding objection lodged.

“There is not planning approval for redevelopment of the former Debenhams store,” a Town Hall spokesman said. “There is a planning application with the council, however there is an outstanding objection relating to heritage impact which the applicant needs to redress.’’ Until this is solved, the application will not be debated by members of the planning committee at the borough council.

As previously reported, there will be a total of five three, four and fivestorey buildings consisting of commercial/retail (Class E) at ground floor. There are also proposals for 73 apartments, open space, landscaping and associated engineering and public realm work

The famed prominent ‘JC Smiths’ facade near to the George Eliot statue will be spared the bulldozer and retained as a feature. The plans also show the new pedestrian bridge which will allow for people to walk across the River Anker.