REIMAGINED plans for a multi-million pound retail and leisure development, which will create nearly 900 jobs, have been revealed.

Tollgate Partnership Limited, the firm behind Tollgate Village, has adapted its plans for the new complex, set to be built in Stanway, to reflect changes to the commercial market.

The latest proposals, which will go out to consultation this month, feature office space for small businesses along with a boutique 60-bed hotel, an eight-screen cinema, bowling alley, restaurants and shops.

If plans are approved, the firm says the scheme will create 880 new jobs, as well as 480 during construction.

It claims £26million will be generated for the local economy.

Jayne Gee and Daniel Watts, directors of the Tollgate Partnership, said: “We are really excited to reveal our 2021 vision for Tollgate Village.

"At the heart of the Stanway Growth Area, the development is vibrant, sustainable and closely matched to the needs of our growing community and the wider local economy.

"We started work on the original Tollgate Village planning application ten years ago and the plans have evolved over time.

“Since our planning appeal was granted, we have been working to deliver our plans for Tollgate Village. We had just been given the green light to start and announced the first prestigious leisure operator, The Light cinema, when the pandemic hit.

“Since then, we have been proactive in reimagining Tollgate Village to meet increased demand to work and shop locally and to spend precious leisure time closer to home.

“Our revised plans for the phased development will create a destination which is even more attractive, innovative and exciting than the original and we hope people will take the chance to comment when we reveal the detail next month.”

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The former Sainsbury’s site, off Tollgate West, will be redeveloped first to feature The Light cinema, bowling, restaurants and shops linked by a new promenade, with space for seasonal activities.

There are plans for electric vehicle charging points and solar panels, as well as improved sustainable transport links.

Previous estimates for the scheme have said the development will cost about £70million.

The Light is opening the cinema at Tollgate Village in Stanway

The Light is opening the cinema at Tollgate Village in Stanway

A consultation, including two webinars, on the plans will run until May 18.

Ms Gee said: “We are based in Stanway and the views of the community are really important to us.

“Sadly, the Covid-19 restrictions mean we are unable to hold a traditional public exhibition of our proposals.

“Next week we will release details of our virtual consultation, which will run until May 18, and information about two webinars where everyone can pose questions about the emerging proposals.

“All feedback will be considered as the final proposals are developed.”