A FORMER highways depot could be transformed into a £15 million shopping centre.

Plans for a new retail park in Horsham have been put forward by West Sussex County Council.

The council is proposing to invest £15.47m to regenerate the site of the former Broadbridge Heath highways depot, which was declared surplus to requirements in 2018.

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The shopping centre would include a discount food store, a DIY shop and garden centre, a drive through takeaway restaurant and coffee shop.

Four retailers have already confirmed their intention to commit to long-term leases on the site, the council said.

Jeremy Hunt, cabinet member for finance, said: “This is an exciting scheme which will not only make use of underutilised county council land, but will also support economic recovery and regeneration as part of our economy reset plan.

“Market research has indicated that the site is an ideal location for a retail park.

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"As well as benefitting the community, the scheme will also provide around 135 new jobs, as well as generate a significant revenue return on investment for the county council for many years to come.”

A new roundabout has also been proposed to provide access to the site.

The council plans for the retail park to be complete by 2023/24, subject to planning permission.