Proposed expansions to Chelmsford's High Chelmer shopping centre could bring larger stores like John Lewis to the county town.

Redevelopments are being proposed by the shopping centre's management company, LaSalle Investment Management, to demolish the Market Road multi-storey car park and replace it with a modernised complex for which they plan to spend between £100m and £150m.

The company, which manages the 255,000 sq ft complex, has been in talks with Chelmsford Borough Council, the car park's freehold owner.

Jon Wood, retail director at LaSalle Investment Management, said he was looking to discuss the proposals further with council staff.

High Chelmer centre manager Mick McDonagh said: "We are in early stages of working on a planning application with our partners. We have a long-term investment commitment to the centre."

Published Friday, September 3, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette