Planning approval granted for €30m retail scheme in Bray

Planning permission for the development of a 250,000 square foot retail scheme in the heart of Bray, Co. Wicklow has been granted by An Bord Pleanála.

Property consultants, Savills have been appointed by Wicklow County Council to seek a development partner to progress the project. The site, previously known as the ‘Florentine Centre’, has been the subject of a number of retail-led development proposals since 1996.
Wicklow County Council – who recently purchased the site – sought the approval of An Bord Pleanála for a scaled down retail development providing opportunities for anchor stores, retail units, restaurants, offices, cinema and associated car parking.
The plans also incorporate the development of a new urban street – accessed from Bray Main Street – and a central plaza with pedestrian access from Quinsborough Road.

The gross development value (GDV) of the scheme is estimated at approximately €30m and Savills aim to have a development partner and contractor in place by March 2017, with a view to a scheme completion by the fourth quarter of 2018.

Director at Savills Ireland, Larry Brennan commented, "We are delighted with An Bord Pleanála’s decision to grant planning permission for the development of this exciting new retail scheme, which we believe will transform the retail and evening economy of Bray, where the main street would benefit from larger restaurants, larger retail units and leisure offerings. The recovering retail economy is now supporting real occupier demand, which can offer favourable returns to the appropriate development partner."

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