B&Q bids to stop Maybird store demolition

B&Q are strongly objecting to proposals to demolish its Stratford store saying the move could lead to the loss of 49 jobs.

Back in April The Capital Hill Partnership, which owns the Maybird Centre, submitted a planning application to demolish B&Q and replace it with three new retail units.

The applicant argued that the work was needed to bring that end of the retail park up to the same standard as the rest of the site, using the same materials as the rest of the units.

The plans were met with a largely negative reaction on social media, with many unhappy at the potential loss of the DIY retailer following the closure of Homebase in 2014.

B&Q themselves have now hit out at the plans highlighting a number of reasons why such a move would be bad for Stratford and the local economy.

Aside from the potential loss of 49 jobs, the chain says the store’s closure would lead to a lack of choice for the consumer and to shoppers deciding to look outside of Stratford for DIY related items.

The firm has also questions whether additional fashion retailers (who it presumes would occupy the new units) are needed in the area and highlights B&Q’s commitment to green issues and CO2 reduction.

The company added that if the application was successful it would be unlikely that they would find another centrally located premises and may lead the company to relocate its store to a neighbouring catchment.

Public comments on the application also draw attention to the lack of additional parking proposed in the application.

The application is expected to appear before the planning committee in around four weeks’ time.