B&Q withdraws from Braintree development

A DIY retailer has pulled out of plans to occupy a multi-million pound new superstore on the outskirts of Braintree.

B&Q was set to relocate to land south of Millennium Way near Galley’s Corner roundabout.

Landowners Braintree Properties LLP has applied for permission to build the outdoor garden centre, builders yard and 255 parking spaces.

But B&Q is now staying at its current site in Charter Way, which it says is “satisfactory for serving the current market”.

Braintree Properties LLP said it still planned to go ahead with the application despite B&Q’s representation that it was not interested.

However, they refused to name an alternative retailer.

Separately, the owner of Braintree Freeport has also applied to build a new 40,000 square foot DIY warehouse with a 15,000 square foot garden centre on land just north of Freeport.

Asked if this was now B&Q's preferred site, a company spokesman said: “B&Q is committed to having a store in Braintree.

"Where this may be in future is currently under review.”

Source : John Lucas - Harwich & Manningtree Standard
http://www.harwichandmanningtreestandard.co.uk/news/north_essex_news/11757528.B_Q_pulls_out_of_plans_for_new_Braintree_site/