Archive Council News

14.03.05

Debenhams Sign Up for Eagles Meadow Development

Debenhams has been named as the flagship department store that will be the centrepiece of the imaginative massive Eagle’s Meadows development in Wrexham and the news that they have entered into an Agreement for Lease for a store that will trade 60,000 sq ft has been welcomed by Wrexham Council.

The announcement came as plans, unveiled by Wilson Bowden Developments and their development architects Bernard Engle, show a major retail, leisure and residential development focused around “Spanish Steps” and spectacular views to St Giles Church. In addition to Debenham’s the plans also show a cinema, 24 lane bowling alley and family orientated restaurants. 50 modern apartments a secure and well lit two level car park with parking for 1,000 vehicles, an improved road system and easy access for disabled visitors and provision for Shopmobility complete the £95 million redevelopment.

The transformation of the area will be yet another high quality development that has seen Wrexham transformed from a traditional market town to the area’s number one shopping destination. It is the result of partnership working between private and public bodies and a joint planning application will be submitted to Wrexham Council’s Planning Department before the end of the month.

It is hoped that work can start on the site by the end of the year with a completion date of 2008. The scheme will provide employment in the construction process and in the longer term hundreds of new retail jobs will be created.

Plans for the whole area will go on public display on Tuesday and Wednesday at Wrexham Library and members of the public are invited to fill in a questionnaire with their views.

Paul Roberts, Strategic Director, Wrexham County Borough Council, said:

"The scheme is innovative and refreshing and will bring new life to this area of Wrexham. It is reassuring that a major department store such as Debenhams has recognised the importance of Wrexham as North Wales’ largest and finest retail area and we will be very pleased to welcome them to the area."

Nick Richardson, Managing Director of Wilson Bowden Developments, said:

"We are delighted that Debenhams have agreed to become the centrepiece of this flagship scheme that will ensure Wrexham's position as a retail destination. The Eagles Meadow development will rejuvenate this part of the town and become a testament to public private partnership working. We look forward to a favourable reception to the joint planning application and to a permission that will enable us to start on site as soon as possible."

Chris Wieszczycki, Director, Bernard Engle Architects, said:

"We are building on the historical heritage of Wrexham, bringing its market town character and open streetscape into the heart of the development. Wrexham will gain an important architectural landmark and a new focus for town centre life open and accessible well into the evening."

Click here to view the Eagle's Meadow Development Video