A derelict ex-pub site has been transformed into a new retail scheme bringing much needed redevelopment to the local area.

The project on the outskirts of Leicester city centre is a perfect example of how to turn around the job losses that have been created from the continued closure of pubs across the region, according to Wakemans associate director Andrew Hancock.

"The former pub on this site had become an eyesore and locals were keen to see it torn down," said Mr. Hancock.

"It is sad to see communities lose their local pubs but a report by the British Beer & Pub Association has said that around 1,300 pubs in Britain shut down last year with a loss of some 13,000 jobs and these sites need to be regenerated for the benefit of the community."

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Wakemans acted as employer's agent, quantity surveyor and CDM co-ordinator on the £450,000 scheme at Stephenson Drive on behalf of Sheppard Developments, and also took on a monitoring role for the fund provider.

Contractor UK Construction Ltd has completed work on the 5,000 sq ft retail development, which comprises three separate units. One has been leased to convenience store One Stop, while the country’s leading fish and chip shop operator Starfish Group is taking another and the final unit is being developed speculatively.

The Leicester scheme was Wakemans' first major project for Sheppard Developments and is one of three current instructions. The Nottingham-based developer has also appointed Wakemans as employer’s agent, quantity surveyor and CDM co-ordinator on two mixed use projects in Peterborough and Mansfield, both of which will team retail space with new homes.

(CD)