Preferred partner to be announced on Northern Gateway project by March

Two developers have been shortlisted for the Northern Gateway town centre development in Chesterfield.

Muse Developments and Wilson Bowden will go head-to-head to submit detailed proposals for the town’s Northern Gateway project, which will see the ‘Donut’ roundabout area of Chesterfield developed to comprise high street shops, restaurants and cafes and a town centre food store.

Chesterfield Borough Council said it selected the two firms after a “rigorous evaluation process”.

The two developers will now submit detailed proposals by the end of the month and the preferred partner will be announced by March 2012.

If a suitable partner is found within the project timescale, a planning application could be submitted next summer with work to begin on the site in 2013, the council said.

Council leader John Burrows said: “The development is expected to generate a significant number of jobs both during construction and once completed. Muse and Wilson Bowden have confirmed that they are committed to maximising opportunities for local businesses as well as jobs and training opportunities for local people.”

Muse Developments and Wilson Bowden said they were “delighted” to have been shortlisted.