COUNCIL bosses are seeking a developer to bring forward the first phase of Lion Fields - a new mixed-use scheme at the eastern gateway to Kidderminster.

The appointed developer will purchase 3.56 acres of land at the south east of the development area, known as Lion Fields Parcel One - the former location of the recently demolished Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre.

This site has been identified for leisure-led redevelopment.

Within the Kidderminster Eastern Gateway Development Framework, prepared by Savills - a real estate services provider - and adopted by Wyre Forest District Council in 2016, parcel one is allocated for cinema use, supported by family cafes, restaurants and a multi-storey car park.

Ed Jeffrey, from Savills' development team, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for a developer to bring forward the first phase of Lion Fields, which upon completion will be transformational for Kidderminster.

"Parcel one's location means it will act as an entrance and gateway to the wider development, making it of particular strategic importance to the future success of the scheme as a whole."

Totalling 16 acres, Lion Fields extends over the eastern area of Kidderminster town centre, bounded to the north by Coventry Street, to the west and south by Worcester Street and Oxford Street, and to the east by the Ringway (A451).

Upon completion, the full development will comprise a mix of uses including leisure, retail, residential, creative and community.

Councillor Ian Hardiman, Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration, added "Our search for a developer for parcel one is a major step forward for Lion Fields, which will ultimately deliver a high quality, mixed-use development that is complimentary to and integrated with the town centre.

"The redevelopment will play a key role in improving the vitality of the town centre by supporting local business, creating an enhanced day time and night time economy, and encouraging greater dwell time through better public spaces and uses serving the community."