Sheer House latest October 2019

Update on West Byfleet District Centre

The owner of West Byfleet District Centre, Prime Finance (West Byfleet), has devoted significant resources in the acquisition and progression of the Sheer House complex to date, culminating in securing the planning permission for the comprehensive regeneration of the centre of West Byfleet.

This has paved the way for major investment in West Byfleet including major improvements to the public realm and a new public square. Work is continuing with Woking Borough Council to prepare the centre for redevelopment, and a development agreement to facilitate the incorporation of the council owned car parking area and library / community facility into the development has now been completed.

Securing vacant possession of the existing buildings is of significant importance. Over the past twelve months, several occupiers have decided to vacate on their own volition, while others have agreed terms to end their tenancies over the balance of this year. There remain a couple of occupiers with leases that run into 2020. However, a number of initiatives are in progress to enable the commencement of development at the earliest possible date.

Whilst we acknowledge it is disappointing for local residents to have fewer shops available, this is the inevitable result of the substantial challenges involved in re-developing a complex site. We therefore hope that you will bear with us.

A further update will be provided later in the year.