Grosvenor/Lend Lease’s Preston plans called in

Grosvenor and Lend Lease’s £700m Tithebarn development in Preston, Lancashire has been called in for public inquiry.   The decision was announced days after the government issued an article 14 direction requesting more time to consider wheter the project should be examined by an inspector.   The 1.5m sq ft retail-led regeneration scheme was granted outline planning permission by Preston council in July.   Tithebarn will comprise 85 shops and a mix of leisure and residential uses. John Lewis will occupy a 230,000 sq ft store at the scheme, while Marks & Spencer will occupy 115,000 sq ft.   Neighbouring Blackpool has objected to the scheme. In a joint statement, Preston’s group leaders said: “It’s disappointing as we still believe a public inquiry into Tithebarn is unnecessary. There are very clear and strong planning reasons why Tithebarn should be allowed to go ahead in Preston and we will now make that case at public inquiry.   “The developers also expressed disappointment at the call in of the plans, which they said would create a modern and vibrant city centre for the entire region, and attract jobs and investment to Lancashire.” paul.norman@egi.co.uk