Full plans revealed for ‘gateway’ foundry site

Developer Trilogy Developments has submitted its application to build offices, a supermarket and light industrial buildings on the site of the decaying foundry.

Following a suggestion from the public, a clock and thermometer similar to that on the Ford foundry will also be included.

Plans for the 18-acre site, which also include a cycle path linking Old Warwick Road and Princes Drive, and parkland between railway lines and Park Drive, are now available to view on Warwick District Council’s website.

Developer Trilogy bought the site in late 2009 and hopes to begin demolition and clean-up in spring 2011, if planning permission is granted.

Trilogy director Patrick Stones has predicted the development will 1,200 jobs in offices, industrial units, a Morrison’s supermarket and a 150-bed hotel.

The office design, by architects Page/Park was chosen in a competition. The company held two public exhibitions of its plans in March and September. The developer said almost 73 per cent of people who gave feedback at a recent display supported the plan, compared to two thirds in March. Only nine per cent said they disapproved and 17 per cent were neutral.

Mr Stones said: “We are pleased the detailed plans have again met with widespread support and we are extremely grateful to everyone who took the time to visit the exhibition and leave us constructive feedback.”

The scheme is likely to be built in phases, with the supermarket, landscaping, footpaths, cyclepaths and road improvements coming before the offices and hotel. Councillors are expected to debate the scheme in January.

Click on the link at the top right to see the plans.