Plans for a multi-million pound project which would create jobs and improve traffic flow in a town have been revealed today (Thursday).
Kiafield Properties is holding a public consultation for the Royston Gateway – a project which would include building a Waitrose supermarket, a warehouse for Royston-based chemicals and specialist metal company Johnson Matthey and a new southbound junction onto the A505.
The 30-acre site is situated between York Way and the A505 in Royston.
A spokesman for Kiafield Properties said: “We are delighted to be bringing forward our multi-million pound plans for the Royston Gateway to the people of Royston. We believe that phase one of the development will act as a catalyst to bring further businesses and jobs to Royston, securing the town’s future as an employment hub.
“We would like to hear from as many local people as possible before submitting an application to North Hertfordshire District Council in the near future. If successful, we would aim to start work early in 2015 on the Johnson Matthey building, this will be followed by the new Waitrose food store and infrastructure works thereafter.”
Oliver Heald, MP for North East Herts, said: “I was told about it earlier this week and am very interested to hear what people think about it. It sounds like it is going to be a substantial investment in the town.”
Lisa Thompson, head of retailer group Royston Means Business and general manager of the Stationary Cupboard in Royston High Street, said: “I think it will be good for the town. Bringing jobs into the area is a good thing and the Waitrose will give the other supermarkets in the town some competition.”
Today 7,000 newsletters are being delivered to homes across Royston asking residents for feedback on the plans and inform them of a public exhibition being held at The Heath in Baldock Road between 11am and 7.30pm on Friday, June 13.
A website – www.roystongateway.co.uk – is also being launched where people can have their say on the plans.
• What do you think of the plans? Email postbag@royston-crow.co.uk
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