Town centre multiplex set to get the green light

An application was submitted to Horsham District Council in June to redevelop the western end of Swan Walk shopping centre.

The proposals outline the creation of a six screen multiplex cinema along with four new restaurants and a retail unit.

It will span three floors and will take over the areas currently home to Wilkinsons, Trend and Hop Skip and Jump in the Bishopric.

According to the latest plans the four restaurants will be located on the ground floor (street level). A new entrance will be created in the north west corner, opposite Springfield Road, with escalators and lifts to the upper floors. There will also be access from Swan Walk car park.

On the first floor (mall level) a new retail unit will be built along with an entrance to the cinema.

On the second floor, which is currently home to offices, a six screen, multiplex cinema will be created with 850 seats and a cafe/foyer area.

The plans have been recommended for approval, despite receiving more than ten letters of objection.

The United Reformed Church raised concerns about access to Springfield Road and Springfield House car park while the Horsham Society opposed the plans due to its design and appearance.

The group say the proposed metal and bricks, which will be used to create the scheme, do not fit with the area and has also stated more restaurants will not fit the council’s vision for the town.

Campaigners calling for a Changing Places facilities have also opposed the plans.

Councillors will discuss the application at next Tuesday’s Development Management Committee (north).

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