Wykeland MD ‘Pleased’ After Planning Application Approved

Wykeland Group say they are pleased an application to reduce the size of retail units at Flemingate has been approved by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

Beverley’ Chamber of Trade who are there to represent people who run a business in Beverley supported the application though this was not a view shared by many traders.

Some local traders have turned to social media in disbelief over a decision they say will damage their business and Beverley as destination.

Wykeland who have had previous applications declined were granted permission to spilt 17 units into smaller units which they say will help them increase choice.

Dominic Gibbons, Managing Director of Hull-based regeneration company Wykeland Group, developer and owner of the Flemingate centre, said:

“We are pleased the planning committee has approved this application.

“Consent will enable us to meet demand from retailers and maximise the very substantial benefits Flemingate brings to Beverley in investment, jobs and enhanced quality and choice of the town’s retail and leisure offering. It sends out a clear message that Beverley is open for business.”

Wykeland says that since opening the development has created hundreds of news jobs and with their application, they will be able to create more work in Beverley.

Mr. Gibbons said;

“More than 600 jobs have been created to date at Flemingate, and we estimate up to a further 200 jobs would result from letting of the remaining units.”

However, some people have been critical of the retail offering with many of the stores that have opened being duplicates that already exist on the historic high street of Beverley.

Speaking about the retail offering, Mr. Gibbons said;

“In recent weeks, River Island has joined the big retail brands at Flemingate, with Outfit and Superdrug opening next month.”

“We look forward to announcing more lettings soon that will reinforce Flemingate as a leading retail and leisure destination and contribute further to the vitality and prosperity of Beverley.”