DEMOLITION work has begun on the Square, Hale Barns.


Real estate developer, Development Securities PLC , began preparing the site last Thursday (July 18), with the expectation that demolition will take two months and building work will have begun by end of the year.


Once complete, the £30 million scheme will provide a Booths supermarket and cafe, alongside new shops, restaurants and 24 ‘luxury’ apartments.


Development Securities anticipate that ‘in excess’ of 100 jobs will be created by the scheme, which will revitalise ‘a run-down 1960s shopping centre’ and Hale Barns itself.


Councillor Michael Hyman, executive member for economic growth and prosperity, said: “This development will have a real positive impact on the area, creating a thriving centre for Hale Barns as well as providing employment opportunities. I look forward to its completion and enjoyment by local people.”


Graham Booth, Booths Supermarkets director, said: “We are delighted to be opening a new store in Hale Barns, building on the success in the region of our Media City store.


“After many years of aspiration, we have finally got the green light to begin to create a store in Hale Barns that we hope will provide the very best locally sourced produce in this prestigious location.”


Laurence Martin, Development Securities’ project director, said: “We are pleased to be on site and ready to develop The Square which, once complete, will offer a vibrant new retail, living and leisure environment in the centre of Hale Barns.


“Demand from local retailers has been strong and we are confident that we can deliver a fantastic new destination for Hale Barns and beyond where people can eat, shop and enjoy a revitalised new centre.”