Gleeds, the International Management and Construction Consultancy, has begun work on site as Quantity Surveyor on a mixed use development in Newbury Town Centre, following their appointment by developer, Standard Life Investment Funds Ltd.

This development is one of the few mixed use schemes of its type under construction in the UK at this time.

The project includes provisions for 28,500 sq m of retail space, which will see the introduction of up to 50 new units and a department store set over three storeys.

It will also include 14,900 sq m of residential space comprising 184 apartments over seven storeys, of which 120 will be privately owned with the remainder allocated as affordable housing aiming to achieve the 'Code for Sustainable Homes' level six. An additional garden area of over half an acre will be incorporated on the roof space and 779 underground car parking spaces will also be provided in the basement of the development.

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The current site is home to a number of listed buildings which has led to English Heritage having a close involvement with the scheme in order to ensure the original façades are retained when surrounding buildings are demolished or redeveloped. The project aims to pedestrianise a series of new streets and squares which are designed to enhance the town's significant historic features.

John Murray, Managing Partner for Gleeds London office said: "We are delighted to be a part of this challenging and exciting project for Newbury. This development will create a lively and attractive residential community complementing the town’s traditional character."

The retail units will be open in time for Christmas 2010.