Still no sign of the Carr Lane Retail Park two years after work was due to start

It was anticipated that building work would start at the site, located off Lea Road roundabout, in February 2014, however, the site is still derelict.

The development would boast six units with a combined 1,524 square metres of retail floor space with 68 car parking spaces.

It was predicted that the shopping centre would create 50 jobs and bring ‘great opportunities and growth to the area.’

Tim Bradford, of chartered surveyors Banks Long and Co who are acting as agents for the developer MF Strawson, said plans are still going ahead however there is no set date yet for work to begin.

West Lindsey District Council’s planning committee unanimously agreed to grant permission for the planning application in February 2013.

Mayor of Gainsborough, Coun Matthew Boles, said: “This appears to have become the forgotten project of the town, yet another plan that was sold as redeveloping this area of town which again has disappointingly come to nothing thus far, let’s hope that the new plans this week for the housing development zone opposite this site are more successful and can bring the development that is desperately needed in this area.

“Let’s not also forget this area would be the ideal and preferred site for a second bridge over the Trent, I just hope any plans don’t not consider this long term project and handicap it moving forward.”

Samantha Mellows, Gainsborough Town Manager said: “Sadly, the site has been vacant for a long time now and we hope to see plans for development in the short term.

“Plans for additional housing throughout Gainsborough are progressing, therefore it is disappointing that employment sites such as this appear to have stalled.

“Through discussion with our members, we know that businesses in Gainsborough are doing well with many showing growth.

“We would therefore welcome the development of the site to attract further business into the area which would boost the local economy and provide much needed job opportunities for local people.”

West Lindsey District Council said the planning application is still valid however it will expire on July 1.