The scheme includes plans for new retail, housing and highway
developments, which it is claimed will transform the town and strengthen the local economy.

Reporters Helen Beighton and Nicola Smith talk to people to gauge local
opinion.


Supermarket giant Tesco is set to build a major new store in Clay Cross following the issue of compulsory purchase orders on properties situated on the proposed site.

Developers GMI Rovinian say that the supermarket will attract shoppers back into the town and claim that the store will benefit other local shop owners by increasing the number of people visiting.

The company believes that the £22m redevelopment – which will feature a modern GP surgery, bus station, affordable housing and a highway link between Bridge Street and the A61 – will dramatically redesign the existing town centre and improve the visual atmosphere within Clay Cross.

Peter Gilman, chairman of GMI Rovinian, said: "The Clay Cross regeneration scheme will give a massive boost to the area's pride, confidence and economic performance.

"For years the lack of strong and attractive retail opportunities in the town centre has driven local residents to shop outside the area. A recent survey showed that only 30 per cent of Clay Cross residents shopped for food in the town.

"By creating a new retail centre, anchored by a major Tesco supermarket, we will be bringing the missing 70 per cent back to Clay Cross – and with them a huge influx of spending power and opportunities for the existing retailers in the town."

The Tesco supermarket, along with other retail units, will be situated along the new A61 link road.

Full development work will start in around 15 months following the decontamination of the spoil tip and contaminated land within the area and completion of the compulsory purchase process by NE Derbyshire District Council.

The scheme should be completed in just over three years.