The land, at the north end of Sutton High Street, is currently home to some gas holders and 1960s office blocks. But under exciting new proposals, a large retail centre, a 120-bed hotel, green open spaces and more than 100 new homes could get the go-ahead, in what would be one of the biggest new developments in Sutton for decades.

Developers are currently discussing the proposals with Sutton Council, and will soon extend those talks to local residents before they prepare a formal planning application later this year.

The six acre site is largely “dead space”, made up of 1960s office blocks which are part-let on short-term leases, an empty warehouse and gas holders. If the proposals get the green light the site would be completely redeveloped, with a new supermarket and other shops and restaurants, residential accommodation, a new green public square, improved roads around the town centre and better pedestrian access.

Cllr. Jayne McCoy, Executive Member for Planning, Economic Development and Housing at Sutton Council, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to transform what has become an eyesore into a well-used, attractive space that will be a real boost to our local economy. It is really encouraging to see a considerable amount of private sector money being invested in Sutton.

“The initial discussions we’ve had with the developer have been positive; we’re impressed with their ambitions for the site and we have been giving them some steer as to the high standards local people want and expect. We’ll be demanding first class design that’s well thought out to provide new facilities for our residents and will also encourage even more businesses to invest in Sutton.”  Jill, Alan and Hamish agree!

A draft planning brief is now being prepared ahead of a nine-week public consultation, expected to begin in May.