Shrewsbury is set to welcome a major new commercial development that promises to reshape the local retail and service landscape. The project, located on the site of a former pitch and putt between Oteley Road and Hazeldine Way, is expected to attract well-known international and UK brands while also boosting the town’s economy. Work officially begins on 1 September, with construction scheduled to last 12 months.
Once complete, the development will host seven commercial units alongside 101 parking spaces, including designated areas for electric vehicle (EV) charging. The project is designed not only to accommodate modern business needs but also to ensure accessibility for customers as demand for retail and leisure continues to grow in the Shrewsbury area.
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Big Names Confirmed: Starbucks, KFC, and Indigo Sun
Three of the seven units have already been secured by major companies. Starbucks, the world-famous coffeehouse chain, will bring its signature coffee, beverages, and bakery items to the site. This move reflects Starbucks’ ongoing strategy of expanding in regional towns across the UK to capture more of the commuter and local community market.
KFC, a global fast-food giant, is also confirmed as a tenant. Known for its fried chicken and quick-service model, the brand will likely appeal to both local residents and visitors. Alongside these two household names, Indigo Sun, one of the UK’s leading tanning salon chains, has secured another unit. Their presence demonstrates that the development will not only cater to food and beverage outlets but also offer lifestyle and personal care services.
Two additional units are currently under offer, with negotiations ongoing, while the final two remain available for prospective businesses. This balance of secured and available spaces highlights the development’s potential to attract a mix of national brands and local entrepreneurs.
Road Closures and Construction Timeline
To accommodate construction safely, overnight one-way closures are planned for sections of Hazeldine Way. These closures will take place from 1 to 19 September and again from 29 September to 8 November, between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am BST. Local authorities have emphasized that the closures will be temporary and carefully managed to minimize disruption to commuters and residents.
The full build is expected to last 12 months, with completion projected for autumn next year. Once finished, the development is set to become a key commercial hub for the southern side of Shrewsbury.
Care Home Development on the Eastern Side
In addition to the retail and leisure units, the eastern side of the site has already been sold to a care home operator. Plans outline a 66-bed care home supported by 25 parking spaces. The new facility will address growing demand for elderly care in Shropshire and will contribute to the community by creating employment opportunities and providing essential long-term services.
The inclusion of a care home alongside retail outlets demonstrates the council’s strategy of mixed-use development, which combines commercial growth with community services. This approach not only revitalizes underused land but also ensures balanced, sustainable development.
Economic Impact and Community Benefits
Shropshire Council leaders have voiced strong support for the project. Roger Evans, cabinet member for finance, expressed optimism about the economic and social benefits:
“I’m pleased that work is about to begin on the development of this site. Once completed, we’re confident that the site will be popular and well used and will help to benefit the local economy – as well as raising additional income for Shropshire Council.”
The project is expected to generate construction jobs in the short term and create dozens of permanent roles once the businesses open. The arrival of internationally recognized brands such as Starbucks and KFC is also likely to increase footfall in the area, attracting visitors from surrounding towns and enhancing Shrewsbury’s reputation as a growing retail destination.
Why Shrewsbury?
The choice of Shrewsbury for this development reflects wider economic and demographic trends. As a historic market town with a growing population, Shrewsbury has been steadily attracting investment in retail, leisure, and housing. Its location near major transport links and its reputation as a cultural and commercial hub in Shropshire make it an ideal site for national chains seeking to expand beyond metropolitan centers.
Shrewsbury’s southern edge, where this new project is located, has seen substantial growth in residential developments in recent years. With more families and professionals moving to the area, demand for convenient dining, shopping, and personal services has increased significantly. This new commercial development aims to meet that demand, providing modern facilities in a well-connected location.
Sustainability and Future-Ready Features
One of the standout features of the development is the inclusion of electric vehicle charging stations. As the UK accelerates its transition to greener transport, EV infrastructure has become a vital requirement for new commercial projects. By offering EV charging, the site ensures it remains relevant and attractive to environmentally conscious consumers.
Additionally, the project design includes ample parking—101 spaces in total—to reduce congestion and improve accessibility. This balance of sustainability and practicality positions the development as a forward-thinking model for similar towns across the country.
Opportunities for Local Businesses
While multinational brands like Starbucks and KFC grab headlines, the development also presents opportunities for local businesses. With two units still available, Shropshire-based retailers, cafés, or service providers could gain access to a high-traffic location anchored by major tenants.
Local economic groups have suggested that the development could encourage collaborations between large chains and smaller independent operators. For example, a local bakery or boutique might thrive alongside the steady customer flow generated by international brands.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is the new commercial development located?
The project is being built in Shrewsbury, on the site of a former pitch and putt between Oteley Road and Hazeldine Way.
Which businesses are confirmed for the new site?
So far, Starbucks, KFC, and Indigo Sun have secured units. Two more units are under offer, while two remain available.
When will construction begin and how long will it take?
Construction starts on 1 September and is expected to take 12 months, finishing in autumn next year.
Will road closures affect traffic during construction?
Yes. Overnight one-way closures on Hazeldine Way will occur from 1–19 September and again from 29 September–8 November, between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am BST.
How many parking spaces will be available at the site?
The development will include 101 parking spaces, along with electric vehicle (EV) charging points.
What is being built alongside the retail units?
The eastern side of the site has been sold to a care home operator, with plans for a 66-bed care home and 25 parking spaces.
Why are Starbucks and KFC opening in Shrewsbury?
Both brands are expanding to meet demand in regional towns. Shrewsbury’s growing population, strong transport links, and rising retail demand make it an attractive location.
Conclusion
The new Shrewsbury commercial development is more than just a construction project—it represents growth, opportunity, and investment in the community’s future. With global brands like Starbucks and KFC anchoring the site, alongside a 66-bed care home and additional retail units, the development strikes a balance between economic progress and community service. Backed by Shropshire Council, the project is set to create jobs, attract visitors, and enhance Shrewsbury’s reputation as a thriving regional hub. As construction moves forward, anticipation is building for a modern, well-connected destination that will serve residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.
