A radical £500m plan to redevelop the centre of Maidenhead moved a step closer this week after its planning application was approved in principle.

The council wants to demolish the town’s shopping centre (Nicholsons), some offices and 17 dwellings to make way for 653 new apartments, 29,000sqm of office space and 8,300sqm of flexible retail space, including areas for independent shops, restaurants and cafes.

The planning application also proposes opening up historic streets and thoroughfares lost in previous redevelopments and the creation of a new Sir Nicholas Winton public square. It is hoped work will start next year and be completed by 2025.

Councillor Andrew Johnson, leader of the council, said: “The £500m proposals for the Nicholson Quarter have been called the blueprint for all future UK town centre developments and I’m delighted that those plans and that investment is one step closer to reality following the approval in principle of this planning application.

“At a time when the future of our high streets and town centres is at the centre of the national debate around the economic recovery, I am proud that Maidenhead is leading the way in shaping that future by approving the UK’s first major town centre regeneration proposal following the coronavirus pandemic.

“The developer has sought to engage with the community on the proposals over the past two years and council officers have worked tirelessly with them to refine the scheme and ensure we deliver the best possible place and the highest levels of sustainability. The unanimous approval of the application is an endorsement of this work which has sought to deliver the best outcomes for Maidenhead and its residents.

“It is also another major site in Maidenhead that forms part of the regeneration of the town as we build a borough of opportunity and innovation, reaffirming our commitment to support the local economy following the coronavirus pandemic. It will bring opportunities through building and construction work right through to retail opportunities and giving local start-ups the opportunity to develop.”

The planning application was considered and unanimously approved by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead’s Development Management Panel on Wednesday, March 3.

The council believe the development will lead to the creation of 2,700 jobs while just under half of the apartments will be set aside for sheltered accommodation. There is also provision for a 700-space multi storey car park.