Uxbridge residents are being given the chance to have their say on the future of an iconic department store in the town centre.
Inland Homes are working on redevelopment plans for the grade II listed Randalls store, on Vine Street, which has borne former MP Sir John Randall's family name since 1981.
The property developer, who carry out urban regeneration projects around Southern England, bought the distinctive art deco style site in October 2015, after a difficult decision by the ex-Uxbridge and South Ruislip MP to close it, months earlier.
Emerging proposals will see Randall's of Uxbridge converted into a mixed-use development, whilst respecting the existing building and the neighbouring old Uxbridge Fire Station in Cricketfield Road.
CGI images reveal that the Randall's shopfront will either create new shops or office space, with around 60 apartments being built.
Inland Homes say the plans will retain the well-known look of the historic Uxbridge landmark and deliver a scheme that is recognisably Randall’s.
A public consultation is being held later this month to allow local residents, groups and business the opportunity to talk to the design team and provide feedback on the emerging proposals ahead of a planning submission later this year.
Randall's sale 'up there with bereavement'
Sir John Randall told getwestlondon during the sale that it was a harder decision than stepping down as an MP from Parliament.
“It’s up there with bereavement" he said.
Speaking of the sale to Inland Homes, he said: "It was always going to be a wrench for myself and my fellow shareholders to sell the property after all the years in our family’s ownership."
He added: "However, we are excited by the very real interest taken by Inland Homes in the heritage aspects of the building and site.
"I am really looking forward to seeing the building being revitalised in the next part of its evolution.”
Inland Homes are keen to gather public opinion on the proposals before a definitive planning application is submitted to Hillingdon Council.
Nearby shop owner Scott Balcony, of Balcony Shirts, Windsor Street, Uxbridge, shared his view.
He said: "I think it would be a real shame if the Randall's building wasn't a shop of some kind.
“It would be nice to see it returned to its former glory – a few flats could help pay for it, but it would be tragic if it was all flats.”
How can I have a say on the plans?
All members of the public are welcome to attend the two upcoming public consultations:
Friday, May 27, between 11.30am and 5pm
Saturday, May 28, between 10.30am and 2.30pm
They will be held at St Margaret's Church, Windsor Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1AB.
