Update on changes to Nicholsons Centre plans pushed back to February, developer reveals

A long-awaited update on changes to plans for the Nicholsons Centre has been pushed back until February, a developer has said.

Areli Group, which is behind a plan to create a mixed-use complex of shops, offices and flats called the Nicholson Quarter, said it is planning to present changes in the new year.

In October, it told the Advertiser an announcement was expected before the end of this year.

Areli secured planning permission to demolish the Nicholsons Centre and redevelop the area in March 2021.

The project has been held up by legal challenges over compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) for land needed for the regeneration.

In an updated statement to the Advertiser this week, Areli said: “We have continued to work alongside the council since consent was granted in 2021 and have been exploring amendments to the plans in response to feedback and the changes in how people live and work, to maximise the scheme’s positive impact and to support its delivery.

“We are planning to present these changes to the public in February next year.”

Under the initial council-approved plans, Areli was given permission for buildings to be up to 25 storeys.

This garnered much criticism from objectors, with the development labelled ‘Maidhattan’.

But at full council meeting last month, Royal Borough leader Simon Werner revealed that possible improvements to the plans – including reducing the height of the 25-storey block – were being explored.

In his written response to Cllr Gurch Singh (Lib Dem, St Mary’s) on the next steps of the development, he also said improvements to the public realm ‘to make it a vibrant community hub’ were also being explored.

The Areli spokesperson added: “Maidenhead town centre has seen significant investment over the last few years.

“Working together with the council, we are committed to delivering The Nicholson Quarter, which has been shaped through extensive public engagement, and will be a transformational scheme for borough residents and visitors to Maidenhead.

“In terms of timing we are planning to start work on site by the end of 2025.”