LXB Retail Properties’ 465,000 sq ft Rushden Lakes retail and leisure scheme in Northamptonshire is to go to a public inquiry today.
Communities secretary Eric Prickles will decide whether to allow the scheme, which was called in after being granted planning permission by East Northants council in October.
The brownfield site on the edge of Rushden has lain empty for more than 25 years since a country club and dry ski slope closed in 1988.
Wellingborough MP Peter Bone said: “It will provide thousands of permanent jobs and hundreds of temporary jobs, all in the private sector, which is great news for local constituents.
“I have had the biggest response to this issue of any other and we have sent thousands and thousands of piece of correspondence to the planning inspector.
“It’s one of the biggest-ever responses in favour of any planning application.”
LXB chief executive Tim Walton added: “Currently over 60% of local people have to go outside their area to do their shopping.
“Rushden Lakes is the epitome of sustainable development. I cannot think of a single development in living memory that has generated such passionate support from local people.
“I cannot thank them enough for getting behind our vision for this blighted site.”
nick.whitten@estatesgazette.com
