SOLIHULL’S Mell Square is set to receive a string of new restaurants.
The £1.5 million plans for Drury Lane South will see the floorspace of eight shops transformed into three cafés or restaurants with outdoor seating.
The plans, put forward by Mell Square owners IM Properties, were stalled during the planning process when councillors raised concerns about the loss of eight of the 15 disabled parking.
But the plans were given the green light after the developer agreed to turn six parking spaces they had previously designated as staff parking into disabled spaces instead – thus mostly replacing those on Drury Lane.
Welcoming the news, Rob Hemus from IM Properties said: “In a fast changing retail environment, where many people prefer to buy online, shopping is becoming more about socialising and these proposals are essential to ensure the long term future of Mell Square and the wider Solihull town centre.
“We hope to create a thriving hub of restaurants where people can meet up with friends, family and colleagues and enjoy the atmosphere.
“It will also significantly enhance the character of the existing street scene and attract potential new visitors to Solihull.”
Following the recent deal to open a Carluccios in Mell Square in early 2017, IM Properties hope similar restaurants will be attracted to the new development.
Mr Hemus added: “Once complete, we hope it will encourage greater pedestrian movement between Touchwood and Mell Square as both have complementary offerings that all shoppers can enjoy.”
Since acquiring Mell Square in 2013, IM Properties has spent £4 million on current projects and a further £28.5 million worth of investment in additional properties.
