Exclusive: new restaurant quarter planned for Leamington

Plans have been drawn up to invest around £7 million in a new a food quarter in the heart of Leamington.

The owners of Regent Court are hoping to win permission to allow all the units in its centre – which links Regent Street and the Parade – to be turned into restaurants, a move which could see the creation of around 300 full and part-time jobs.

The move comes after the successful opening of Nando’s and the arrival of Caribbean restaurant chain Turtle Bay, which is currently undergoing fit out and expected to open in March with the creation of 50 jobs.

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Owners New River and Leamington-based agents Wareing & Company have had a string of strong inquiries from other major operators keen to tap into the town’s growing leisure offer.

They met residents earlier in the week to discuss the proposals, which they hope will go before the planning committee of Warwick District Council on Tuesday.

Bill Wareing, of Wareing & Company, said: “Regent Court lends itself very well to a food offer. It has the right environment and suitable units, and the success of Nando’s has illustrated that perfectly.

“We have Turtle Bay signed up and very strong interest from at least three other operators who like the not only the concept of a restaurant quarter, but also see this as the perfect way to move into the Leamington market.

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“Everyone knows that leisure and retail on the high street has had a tough time over several years, but I think this again underlines the appeal of Leamington, and it is a situation other towns would give their eye teeth for.

“Towns need to attract footfall, and these are all desirable food brands which will bring people into the town centre. Again Nando’s proves that and it is trading extremely well.

“It would require considerable investment and the owners are prepared to make it because they see that is where the future best lies for the development and the town.

“Not only will it improve the variety of food offer for local people and visitors, it will also offer a range of full and part time jobs, many of which will suit younger people and those with the need to work flexible hours.”

Regent Court was completed ten years ago and includes 50,000 sq ft of retail space and 134 residential apartments.

Occupiers include Jaeger, LK Bennett, and Two Seasons.