Shopping blow as IKEA pulls out of county site

IKEA has walked away from a new development near Preston

IKEA was set to be the flagship store at the £36m development at Cuerden, which was recently re-branded Lancashire Central.

The news will be a blow to Lancashire shoppers who currently have to travel to Warrington for the firms Scandinavian designs.

The company said the site was no longer viable following increased development costs and delays. Richard Rands, IKEA UK and Ireland Property Manager, commented: “After careful consideration, IKEA UK and Ireland has decided not to progress with the planned development of an IKEA store at Cuerden Strategic Site.

“Our decision is due to increased development costs and delays outside of IKEA’s control which no longer make this location viable.

“We will continue to look for new sites and opportunities in this area as part of our commitment to expansion in the UK.”

The Leader of Lancashire County Council Geopff Driver expressed his disappointment at the decision, but said the site still remained an attractive location for other businesses.

He said: “This is extremely disappointing and we will hold discussions over the next few weeks with IKEA.”