A planning application for a new Next store in Stevenage has been submitted to the local authority.

Next's existing lease at The Forum expires in May, with that area of town set to be redeveloped as part of a life sciences scheme. 

Keen to remain in Stevenage, Next says the only viable alternative location is at 9 Yards - the former Roaring Meg Retail Park - in London Road.

If planning permission for the earmarked unit is refused, Next says it will cease trading in the town.

The plans submitted to Stevenage Borough Council include amalgamating two units on the retail park, which have been vacant since 2022 but were previously occupied by Partyman and TruGym.

If the proposal is given the go-ahead, the new Next will be significantly larger that the existing store and will include a café.

A statement accompanying the planning application says: "The proposed development provides the only opportunity for a replacement , larger Next store within Stevenage and retain the Next brand within the area.

"The proposals will secure the long-term occupation of the units and ensure this national multiple operator can continue to serve the residents of Stevenage and the wider area.

"This will mean that customers will not have to travel further afield to other Next stores, such as Hitchin or Luton, and will retain existing staff within Stevenage."

It also says: "The proposal will not lead to a significantly adverse impact on the performance and vitality and viability of the town centre."

If the plans go ahead, 41 existing jobs will be secured, with staff transferring from the existing store to the new one, and an additional 35 jobs will be created.

Public consultation on the proposal was carried out in August, with the overwhelming majority of those who took part - 97% - in support of the plans.

To view the plans in full, and have your say, visit stevenage.gov.uk and search for reference 24/00690/FP in the planning portal.