Maidenhead & Windsor

Expansion plans for the Waitrose store in Maidenhead has been given the green light by the Royal Borough, subject to the necessary legal agreements, and the decision has been warmly welcomed by local councillors.

Amended plans for the Maidenhead store extension and 14 new town centre flats were given the conditional approval by the Maidenhead development control panel last night (Wednesday May 10), paving the way for what has been described as "a vote of confidence in the town and its economic future".

Cllr Vicky Howes, lead member for Maidenhead town centre, said she was delighted that initial difficulties with the plan had been addressed successfully, opening the door to this much-looked-forward to investment in the centre of Maidenhead.

She said: "We are seeing increasing evidence of national and international businesses putting their money into Maidenhead and hopefully this will spin off into additional investment in this area of the town.

"I am delighted that Waitrose will not only be expanding their already successful store but also increasing the number of town centre homes. Along with Sainsbury's and the current improvements in the Nicholsons Shopping Centre, this is proof that Maidenhead can cut the mustard for economic success."

Cllr Simon Werner, deputy leader, said the council's strong partnership working with businesses and retailers aimed to send out positive messages about Maidenhead's vitality and viability. He added: "The Waitrose scheme will add to the quality and choice for shoppers in Maidenhead and demonstrate that we have a great deal to offer retail and business investors."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead