Theresa May has expressed disappointment at the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead’s decision to refuse planning permission for the Kings Triangle project in Maidenhead town centre. The decision was taken by the Royal Borough’s Development Control Panel and means that the project – which would bring new shops, homes and offices to the town centre – cannot proceed for the time being. Theresa has previously supported the proposals and called on the council to approve them.
The planning application was first submitted in November 2011 and has been subject to public consultation. In December 2012, a decision on planning permission was deferred to allow the developers, ING, to address some issues that were raised. Following this, planning officers from the council recommended that the development should be supported, noting that it “will help bring about the rejuvenation of Maidenhead town centre and in particular will enhance the retail offer and create new homes and office space all within a high quality environment that will integrate well into its surroundings.”
Theresa has consistently supported the proposals, stating that they should not be seen in isolation but are an important part of the wider efforts to rejuvenate Maidenhead town centre.
Commenting, Theresa said: “This is a disappointing decision. This site is an important one for the town centre, and the Kings Triangle project would be part of the wider rejuvenation of Maidenhead that we all want to see. I am concerned at the message this sends to local residents and the business community, who want to see progress made in improving the town centre.”
“Nevertheless, this is just one part of the work that is underway to improve the town centre. With other developments in the pipeline, and the introduction of Crossrail, we can be confident that Maidenhead will continue to attract investment, meaning more jobs and better services locally.”
