Clowes cracks on in Congleton

Detailed plans have been submitted for 93,000 sq ft of employment space at Viking Way as the firm looks to progress development.

The site forms part of the Congleton Business Park expansion scheme outlined in Cheshire East’s local plan and lies to the west of Viking Way.

Although outline consent was secured by Richborough Estates in March 2021 – the land promoter then immediately sold the site to Clowes. That decision notice was only issued this February.

The 250,000 sq ft-plus commercial element of the site comprises 37,000 sq ft of offices, 93,000 sq ft of light industrial use, and 126,000 sq ft of warehouse accommodation.

On top of this reserved matters application, advisor Asteer Planning has submitted a further application for enabling works at the site. Wider plans also include 175 homes and neighbourhood retail, including a 19,000 sq ft food store. The site is accessed from the new Congleton Link Road.

Marc Freeman, director at Clowes Developments, the business leading the commercial element of the project, said: “This is a really exciting development for the Viking Way project and approval of these applications will mark a major step forward for the wider scheme.

“Viking Way is a landmark development for the town and will believe it will help promote Congleton, creating new jobs and boosting the local economy.”

Alice Routledge, partner at Asteer Planning, added: “The Viking Way scheme will be a huge contribution to the successful delivery of the Congleton Business Park Extension which is a key element of the Local Plan Strategy.

“Approval of these applications will not only provide the go-ahead for crucial infrastructure work to progress but will significantly increase the scheme’s attractiveness to the market and help in securing end users.”