A MULTI-million pound expansion of an edge-of-town retail park could be approved next week (Tuesday, July 7).

Durham County Council planning officers have recommended plans be approved to create more shops and parking and improve the road network at the Arnison Centre, Pity Me, Durham.

The existing Homebase store and garden centre, covering 5,030sq metres, would be demolished to make way for four new units, covering a total of 8,844sq metres.

The customer car park would be remodelled to increase the number of spaces from 536 to 606 and 40 extra staff parking spaces would also be provided.

An extra traffic lane would be installed on Rotary Way and Lidl roundabouts to relieve congestion and pedestrian routes around the retail park would also be improved.

Senior council planner Peter Herbert said the proposals would enhance and consolidate the complex’s role without undermining the vitality and viability of other retail centres, such as Durham city centre.

Plans to improve several shopfronts have already been approved.

The proposals have the backing of local county councillors Mark Wilkes, Amanda Hopgood and Mamie Simmons but Framwellgate Moor Parish Council has objected, saying the parking plans are inadequate.

Three residents have also written to the council to object.

The Arnison Centre opened 25 years ago and has undergone much development in recent years, with the addition of an M&S branch, new cafes and restaurants and other shops.

The council’s county planning committee will discuss the latest proposals at County Hall at 1pm on Tuesday (July 7).