A multi-million-pound plan to transform a former depot into a retail park is due to be submitted.

West Sussex County Council is preparing to submit the plans as part of a regeneration scheme in Broadbridge Heath, near Horsham.

The plans will see the introduction of a selection of new brands to the area, including a discount food retailer, and will create around 137 new jobs for local people and provide new facilities for the community.

The county council wants to redevelop the former Broadbridge Heath Depot, a site that was identified as being “surplus to requirements” back in 2018, to deliver a new commercial and retail space that will expand and complement existing nearby shops.

The council said the depot, which will need to be closed down for the plans to go ahead, is a large, brownfield site, that currently provides “little utility” for the community and does not maximise the site’s economic value.

Artist impressions of the site also show there will be electric vehicle charging points in the car park, which will have 230 spaces.

The Argus: An artist's impression of the new parkAn artist's impression of the new park (Image: West Sussex County Council)

Jeremy Hunt, West Sussex County Council cabinet member for finance and property, said: “We are delighted to announce our plans to deliver this exciting new regeneration scheme in Broadbridge Heath.

“This opportunity will not only deliver new facilities and jobs for the community but will also support the local economy and provide a vital revenue stream for the council in order to support frontline services, at a time when local government finances have never been so stretched.”

A planning application is currently being prepared and is set to be submitted this spring.

Ahead of this, the council is keen to hear the views of the community.

Residents can find out more and have their say about the plans by visiting www.broadbridgeretailpark.co.uk or attending a public consultation event on March 7 at The Bridge Leisure Centre, Broadbridge Heath, between 4pm and 7pm.

Initial comments in advance of the planning application being submitted should be received by Friday, March 17.

The project team can also be reached by emailing info@broadbridgeretailpark.co.uk or calling (freephone) 0800 368 1823.