A huge world wide brand at Cheshire Oaks is set to expand into a larger store.
Polo Ralph Lauren has announced the opening date in the upmarket Quarter at the designer village, where it has two units, to an imposing flagship outlet at the gateway to the top brand stores.
The contemporary design landmark, involving 100 jobs, 50 of which will be new, opens its doors on Thursday December 3 ahead of the festive shopping season.
The distinctive new build at the designer outlet complex, which has been completed and is fitting out, has 14,000sq ft of sales space.
It will lead to the loss of 28 parking spaces according to a report.
New shop design
The store is described as ‘significantly higher’ than single-storey retail outlets in the village and occupies the site of the iconic walk through Christmas tree , once Europe’s largest, which has relocated.
Architects suggest the design is ‘loosely based’ on a Cheshire countryside barn and uses quality materials. Gables reflect the architecture of the outlet village.
The retailer said it wished to occupy a single larger store due to increased demand and to improve the offer to customers.
It also wanted to remain close to other high end designer fashion retailers in the Quarter area of the complex.
Ellesmere Port Development Board chairman Robert Mee said: “As a major local employer and a visitor destination of regional significance, the board welcomes the proposed investment into Ellesmere Port and the economic benefits this brings. The board is keen to continue a positive relationship with Cheshire Oaks to ensure local employment opportunities are maximised.”
There were no objections from the town centre manager but the prospect of the new store led to representations by a regeneration body responsible for Chester city centre.
Oaks expansion
Then Chester Renaissance chairman Eric Langton told borough planners his board supported the jobs the development would bring to Cheshire West and Chester ‘and is keen to support the people into employment as it has done with other developments locally’.
He said: “However the Renaissance board would not support unfettered expansion of Cheshire Oaks which could impact on retail in Chester city centre and other town centres across the borough.”
He pointed out a second application, which had been withdrawn, proposed ‘significant new growth’ at Cheshire Oaks including decked parking and argued approval of the new store should not create a precedent.
Mr Langton concluded: “As a board we are keen that Chester has a vibrant and successful retail offer that works alongside Cheshire Oaks and are keen to have a closer relationship working together to promote the borough.”
Recommending the application should be approved planners said that there would be no significant effect on local roads and parking.
Permission was subject to a £50,000 contribution to green improvements along Stanney Lane.
Ahead of the opening the Polo Ralph Lauren Women and Children store will close on Saturday November 28 and the Polo Ralph Lauren Men store on Monday November 30.
A glittering VIP launch is proposed for the store with guests arriving from the Cheshire Polo Club and Chester’s luxury Grosvenor Hotel. Fashion, fizz, canapés and exclusive treats will be on offer.
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