A NEW multi-million pound retail park, transforming a former derelict site in Bromsgrove, is taking shape.

The new Brook Retail Park, funded by a £4.5 million investment and development loan from the Royal Bank of Scotland, includes two retail units – 25,000 sq ft and 9,000 sq ft - and parking for 161 cars.

The units on the site will be occupied by DIY chain Homebase and Pets at Home.

Work is well underway on the site and the steel frame and cladding have been installed.

The scheme is from property developers Chase Commercial, and is being built on the derelict site of the former Barpro factory in Sherwood Road.

Contractor West Bromwich-based Anglo Holt Construction is due to complete the build in February, ready for the retailers to occupy the units next spring.

Tim Haslam, director at Chase Commercial, said: “We are delighted that Brook Retail Park is progressing well and on schedule to complete next year, as planned.

"The local community has been equally pleased to see the units take shape as the scheme is expected to bring new jobs and investment to the area.”

Chase Commercial has also worked with the Environment Agency to outline a programme of environmental improvements and landscaping, that will be carried out as part of the scheme. The programme will focus on improving the quality and appearance of the brook, including the reshaping of the river course.