DEVELOPERS hope to attract a restaurant, fashion stores and a newsagent to Hester's Way if a multi-million-pound revamp gets the go-ahead.

If proposals get planning permission, the run-down Coronation Square will be rebuilt with up to 30 shops and parking.

A number of current traders would be expected to stay and building work would be phased so they could continue to operate as it takes place.

Bill Scarborough, director of developer B2 Retail, which is in a joint venture with CB Investors, says it is hoped the scheme would breathe new life into the area.

He said: "At the moment the centre has no identity and no focus. We want to recreate the retail location that it once was. It used to be strong many years ago and have some vibrancy about it.

"We expect to attract other names and create a larger supermarket or food store."

He says the development, which could get underway by next Easter if it gets the go-ahead, would cater for residents as well as students at Gloucestershire College and workers at Benhall listening post GCHQ.

The shopping centre, which would be made up of three buildings – an east and west section joined up by a linking structure, is expected to attract mid-market fashion stores, a newsagent, cafes, restaurants, a mobile phone shop and opticians. Mr Scarborough said: "It will be a full retail offer which will provide facilities for the local population and help Gloucestershire College as well as the staff at GCHQ.

"It will be a retail destination which will not impact Cheltenham centre but be in addition to it."

He said half the development would initially be knocked down in a phased programme of work – with traders given the option of moving to vacant units while it is carried out.

If it gets the green light the work, which will include a new car park and seating, is expected to last 18 months.

A planning application is to be submitted by the autumn.

OPINION, P8