Guildford lines up Land Secs to revamp town centre

Guildford council has lined up Land Securities to revamp its town centre, over shortlisted rivals Lend Lease and Queensberry.

The council’s evaluation panel has recommended Land Securities as developer partner to the council’s executive, which will meet to make a final decision on 5 September.

The chosen developer will transform Guildford town centre, including its Friary Shopping Centre.

Councillor James Palmer, deputy leader of the council and lead councillor for town centre planning and infrastructure, said: “Following the Evaluation Panel’s initial selection of a  potential development partner, we carefully re-examined our original recommendation in light of the recent site acquisitions by the Prudential through its property fund M&G.

“The Panel assessed the developers compatibility with the primary landowners together with evidence of relevant and recent experience, capability and an appreciation of our development objectives. 

“In reconsidering our decision, the Panel has reached a different conclusion, which we believe brings forward the most timely and effective development programme with the primary landowners and the right development partner.

“Presentations by the shortlisted developers and engagement with local interested parties helped to inform the Panel in reaching their decision.

“This recommendation aims to move the North Street project forward at pace with Land Securities working closely with the Council and its landowner partners in North Street.”