Decision due on major Slough scheme

Plans to redevelop almost 520,000 sq ft of space in Slough to bring forward a major mixed-use scheme look set to advance.The outline proposals concern a site in the town centre, which comprises the Queensmere Shopping Centre, Wellington House, Duke House, Empire Cinema and a number of buildings along High Street.Submitted plans for a host of elements were submitted to Slough Council, with a revised design and access statement drawn up as recently as August 2022.While outline in nature – meaning some details are reserved until a later date – the proposals still shed light on what is lined up.The main elements are the development of up to 1,600 homes and about 430,000 sq ft of office floorspace, with a host of pubs, bars and eateries also lined up.Elsewhere, there would be space set aside for either a cinema or live music venue, alongside improved public realm and landscaping.It is hoped that the development would provide a “renewed vibrancy” to the town centre, while the construction phases of the project could potentially support 150 direct jobs and 80 indirect or induced jobs.A planning statement submitted to the council notes that the application has the potential to bring forward “much-needed” housing and employment, as well as a wide range of economic benefits.The proposals are set to go before Slough Council’s planning committee later today (29 September) with a recommendation for approval, subject to a S106 deal being struck.