Whittlesey could get new supermarket and 210 homes

Fenland District Council has been approached by Barratt and David Wilson Homes (BDW) ahead of making a formal planning application for land south and west of 300 Eastrea Road.

Although at the early stage of the process, the plans will raise hopes once again that the town can finally enjoy a major supermarket after a protracted saga involving Sainsbury’s and Tesco led to nothing being built.

Sainsbury’s had agreed proposals which would also have created a 54-acre country park and health centre but backed out due to “changing shopping patterns”.

The new development, if eventually approved, is earmarked for the same piece of land.

Savills on behalf of BDW Cambridgeshire, has requested a ‘screening opinion’ from the council to determine whether an Environmental Impact Assessment is required ahead of a planning application.

However, it has not been revealed which chain is eyeing up a move into Whittlesey.

Aside from the new supermarket and homes the development would also include two new access roads from Eastrea Road - one serving the residential area and one serving the food store - as well as pedestrian and cycle connections, public open space and a play area.

According to Savills, separate planning applications would be submitted for the new supermarket and homes.

The council will now consider the screening opinion and decide whether an EIA is necessary.

BDW said its plans are for 207 two, three and four bedroom homes, and that plans for a new supermarket are at an “advanced stage,” with further details to be released soon.

Feedback or questions on the proposal can be emailed to [email protected] until Friday, March 12.