USS and Grosvenor’s proposed Grand Arcade retail scheme in Cambridge has taken a step closer to reality, after Cambridge City Council submitted a compulsory purchase order to acquire outstanding land interests.

The 8.5 acre (3.4 ha) site will house a two-level arcade, incorporating 50 retail units, a 280,000 sq ft (26,000 sq m) John Lewis department store, magistrates court and parking for up to 600 cars.

The order is likely to be the subject of a public inquiry, and will need confirmation from Government ministers.

However, if all goes well, the shopping centre is expected to open for business in autumn 2007.

Drivers Jonas is acting as planning and CPO advisor to the developers.

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