Ropemaker Properties has announced the dates for its public consultation on its redevelopment proposals for Church Walk Shopping Centre in Caterham.  The public exhibition will take place at Church Walk on:

• Friday 12th October between 9am – 8pm, and 

• Saturday 13th October between 9am – 5.30pm.

 

In addition, a ‘pop up exhibition’ will tour some nearby schools so that local parents and children can also view and comment on the proposals.  A dedicated website with all the relevant information will go live on 12th October at www.churchwalkvision.co.uk.

 

The proposed Church Walk redevelopment includes:

• New and improved retail units;

• Restaurants surrounding a large new public space;

• A three screen cinema;

• Expansion and improvement of the car park;

• New residential accommodation above the shopping centre.

 

Speaking for Ropemaker Properties, Paul Hillier said:  “We are very excited to release the details of our redevelopment proposals.  We have been in discussion with Tandridge District Council for many months working up an exciting scheme.  We have already consulted with several local groups to get some early feedback, which has also helped further shape our proposals.  Now we really want to hear from Caterham residents and users of Church Walk.”

 

After seeing a preview of the proposed scheme, local resident and ex-Chairman of ABC “A Better Caterham” (now the Caterham Community Partnership), Chris Windridge, said:  “Investment in Caterham is overdue. Nevertheless it must fit our needs and boost the local economy. This should be a landmark site but given preliminary information of the scheme, I am very concerned over appearance and density, with five-storey height opposite the station proposed and lack of visual appeal. Other matters are: parking, traffic and loss of office space. A rental flats-only scheme above retail, with limited parking, risks overflow. Suggesting a city model fits Caterham today is daft. Drainage is also a huge concern.” 

 

Andrew Browne, owner of JJ Browne Jewellers and Chairman of Caterham Business Improvement District (“BID”) which trades as Caterham Valley For You, said:  “The BID Board broadly supports the principle of redeveloping Church Walk Shopping Centre as it will bring substantial and much needed economic benefit to the town. However we would wish to see a much improved and an appropriate architecturally designed building incorporating high quality building materials with some improvements to both shoppers’ and business parking.

 

“We appreciate the consideration that the developer has given to our input to date and trust that this consultation will continue.”

 

In a statement about the proposed scheme, Tandridge District Council said:  “We welcome the upcoming public consultation about the proposed scheme for the redevelopment of Church Walk in Caterham. The development of the retail centre in Caterham is an important part of the wider regeneration plan for Caterham to make it a more vibrant and attractive area for residents, visitors and businesses. We hope residents will get involved and give their views.”

 

To view the plans and share your views visit www.churchwalkvision.co.uk from 12th October.